Positioning, stabilising, and interfacing structures and system incorporating same

ABSTRACT

A head-mounted display system includes a positioning and stabilising structure structured and arranged to hold a display unit in an operational position over a user&#39;s face in use and an interfacing structure for the display unit constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with the user&#39;s face. The interfacing structure comprises a substantially continuous face engaging surface adapted to contact the user&#39;s face around a periphery of the user&#39;s eyes. The interfacing structure comprises silicone. The interfacing structure is configured and arranged such that force applied to the user&#39;s face is distributed around the periphery thereof. The interfacing structure comprises a first compliance at a first region and a second compliance at a second region, wherein the first region and the second region are configured around the periphery of the interfacing structure to allow selective distribution of the force onto the user&#39;s face.

1 CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.17/082,071, filed Oct. 28, 2020, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.application Ser. No. 16/865,480, filed May 4, 2020, and is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/865,526, filed May4, 2020, each of which claims the benefit of Australian ProvisionalApplication No. 2020900953, filed Mar. 27, 2020. This application alsoclaims the benefit of Australian Provisional Application No. 2020901432,filed May 5, 2020, Australian Provisional Application No. 2020901437,filed May 6, 2020, and Australian Provisional Application No.2020902514, filed Jul. 20, 2020. Each of the above-identifiedapplications is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

2 BACKGROUND OF THE TECHNOLOGY 2.1 Field of the Technology

The present technology relates generally to head mounted displays,positioning and stabilising structures, user interfacing structures, andother components for use in head mounted displays, associatedhead-mounted display assemblies and systems including a display unit andpositioning and stabilising structure, interfacing structures and orcomponents, and methods. The present technology finds particularapplication in the use of virtual reality head mounted displays and isherein described in that context. However, it is to be appreciated thatthe present technology may have broader application and may be used inother head-mounted display arrangements including augmented realitydisplays.

2.2 DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

2.2.1 Head Mounted Display

It is to be understood that, if any prior art is referred to herein,such reference does not constitute an admission that the prior art formsa part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or anyother country.

Virtual reality (or VR) head-mounted displays enable a user to have afully immersive experience of a virtual environment and have broadapplication in fields such as communications, training, medical andsurgical practice, engineering and video gaming.

Virtual reality head mounted displays typically are provided as a systemor assembly that includes a display unit which is arranged to be held inan operational position in front of a user's face. The display unittypically includes a housing containing a display and a user interfacingstructure constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with theuser's face, i.e., the user interfacing structure is facing or placedopposite the user's face. The user interfacing structure may extendabout the display and define in conjunction with the housing, a viewingopening to the display. The user interfacing structure may engage withthe user's face and include a cushion for user comfort and/or be lightsealing to cut ambient light from the display. The head-mounted displaysystem further comprises a positioning and stabilising structure that isdisposed on the user's head to maintain the display unit in position.

2.2.1.1 Interfacing Structure

The head-mounted displays may include a user interfacing structure.Since it is in direct contact with the user's face, the shape andconfiguration of the interfacing structure can have a direct impact onthe effectiveness and comfort of the display unit.

The design of a user interfacing structure presents a number ofchallenges. The face has a complex three-dimensional shape. The size andshape of noses and heads varies considerably between individuals. Sincethe head includes bone, cartilage and soft tissue, different regions ofthe face respond differently to mechanical forces.

One type of interfacing structure extends around the periphery of thedisplay unit and is intended to seal against the user's face when forceis applied to the display unit with the interfacing structure inconfronting engagement with the user's face. The interfacing structuremay include a pad made of a polyurethane (PU). With this type ofinterfacing structure, there are often gaps between the interfacingstructure and the face, and additional force will be required to forcethe display unit against the face in order to achieve the desiredcontact.

The regions not engaged at all by the display unit may allow gaps toform between the facial interface and the user's face through whichundesirable light pollution may ingress into the display unit. The lightpollution may decrease the efficacy and enjoyment of the overall virtualreality experience for the user. In addition, previous systems may bedifficult to adjust to enable application for a wide variety of headsizes. Further still, the display unit and associated positioning andstabilising structure may often be relatively heavy and may be difficultto clean which may thus further limit the comfort and usability of thesystem.

Another type of interfacing structure incorporates a flap seal of thinmaterial positioned about a portion of the periphery of the display unitso as to provide a sealing action against the face of the user. Like theprevious type of interfacing structure, if the match between the faceand the interfacing structure is not good, additional force may berequired to achieve a seal, or light may leak into the display unitin-use. Furthermore, if the shape of the interfacing structure does notmatch that of the user, it may crease or buckle in-use, giving rise toundesirable light penetration.

2.2.1.2 Positioning and Stabilising Structure

To hold the display unit in its correct operational position, thehead-mounted display system further comprises a positioning andstabilising structure that is disposed on the user's head. In the past,these positioning and stabilising structures have been formed fromexpandable rigid structures that are typically applied to the user'shead under tension to maintain the display unit in its operationalposition. Such systems have been prone to exert a clamping pressure onthe user's face which can result in user discomfort at localised stresspoints. Also, previous systems may be difficult to adjust to allow wideapplication of head sizes. Further, the display unit and associatedpositioning and stabilising structure are often heavy and difficult toclean, which further limit the comfort and usability of the system.

Certain other head mounted display systems may be functionallyunsuitable for the present technology. For example, positioning andstabilising structures designed for ornamental and visual aesthetics maynot have the structural capabilities to maintain a suitable pressurearound the face. For example, an excess of clamping pressure may causediscomfort to the user, or alternatively, insufficient clamping pressureon the user's face may not effectively seal the display from ambientlight.

Certain other head mounted display systems may be uncomfortable orimpractical for the present technology. For example, if the system isused for prolonged time periods.

As a consequence of these challenges, some head mounted display systemssuffer from being one or more of obtrusive, aesthetically undesirable,costly, poorly fitting, difficult to use, and uncomfortable especiallywhen worn for long periods of time or when a user is unfamiliar with asystem. Wrongly sized positioning and stabilising structures can giverise to reduced comfort and in turn, shortened periods of use.

Therefore, an interfacing portion of a user interface used for the fullyimmersive experience of a virtual environment are subject to forcescorresponding to the movement of a user during the experience.

2.2.1.3 Materials

Materials used in head mounted display assemblies have included densefoams for contacting portions in the interfacing structures, rigidshells for the housings, and positioning and stabilising structuresformed from rigid plastic clamping structures. These materials havevarious drawbacks including not permitting the skin covered by thematerial to breathe, being inflexible, difficult to clean and prone totrapping bacteria. As a result, products made with such material may beuncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time, causes skinirritation in some individuals and limit the application of theproducts.

Thus, there is a need for an improved system that does not suffer fromthe above-mentioned drawbacks.

3 BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE TECHNOLOGY

An aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning andstabilising structure for a head-mounted display system (or userinterface), the positioning and stabilising structure including a rearsupport structure arranged, in use, to contact a posterior region of theuser's head. In some forms, the rear support structure includes a hoophaving an occipital portion and a parietal portion.

The hoop or at least one of the occipital and parietal portions thereofmay be resiliently extensible along at least a portion of its length. Insome forms, the hoop is flexible along at least a portion of its length.In some forms, where the rear support structure is a hoop, the occipitalportion may extend to a lower portion of the user's head such that itresists upward movement (as a result of its location, it is in contactwith the occipital region of the head) and as such provides an anchorfor the system. In some forms, the hoop is orientated in a generallyupright plane (such upright plane including, as an example, the coronalplane).

In some forms, the rear support structure is disposed posterior of theotobasion superior of the user.

Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning andstabilising structure for a head-mounted display system, the positioningand stabilising structure including a back support portion that isarranged in use to contact a posterior region of the user's head and afront support portion that is arranged in use to contact an anteriorregion of the user's head, the back and front support portions extendingtransverse to the sagittal plane. In some forms, the positioning andstabilising structure further comprises an adjustment mechanism to allowadjustment between the back and front support portions.

In some forms, the adjustment mechanism allows lateral adjustmentbetween the back and front support portions. In some forms, theadjustment mechanism allows angular adjustment between the back andfront support portions.

Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning andstabilising structure for a head-mounted display system, the positioningand stabilising structure including a back support portion that isarranged in use to contact a posterior region of the user's head and afront support portion that is arranged in use to contact an anteriorregion of the user's head, the back and front support portions extendingtransverse to the sagittal plane and being laterally offset from oneanother.

In some forms, the back or occipital support portion is biased intocontact with the occipital region of the user.

Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning andstabilising structure for a head-mounted display system including asupport portion arranged in use to accommodate the weight of the displayunit of the head mounted display system, and one or more adjustmentmechanisms that allow adjustment of the position of the display unitrelative to the support portion.

In some forms, the adjustment of the display unit relative to thesupport portion may be angular and/or in an anterior-posterior directionrelative to the user's head.

Another aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning andstabilising structure for a head-mounted display system that includesresilient components that are extensible and rigidisiers that aresubstantially inextensible and resilient.

In some forms, the positioning and stabilising structure furthercomprises opposing connectors that are disposed on opposing sides of,and extending along the temporal regions of, the user's head in use tointerconnect the rear support structure or support portion to thedisplay unit.

In some forms, the connectors are rigid along at least a portion oftheir length. In some forms, the connectors each comprise an arm havingan anterior end connected to the display unit and a posterior endconnected to the rear support structure or one of the support portions.In some forms, the arm is rigid. In some forms, the posterior end of thearm is disposed at or posterior to the otobasion superior of the user.

In some forms, at least one of the connectors further comprises anadjustment mechanism for adjustment of the positioning and stabilisingstructure to fit different size heads. In some forms, the adjustmentmechanism is disposed at the connection between the posterior end of thetemporal arm and the rear support structure.

In some forms, the positioning and stabilising structure includes one ormore connection tabs that connects to the arm of the connector (i.e.,connector arm), and the adjustment mechanism allows for adjustment ofthe effective length of the connection tab. In some forms, a posteriorend of the connector arm incorporates an eyelet that is arranged toreceive the connection tab, the adjustment mechanism comprising areleasable fastening arrangement to fasten the connection tab to thetemporal arm. In some forms, the releasable fastening arrangement may bearranged to secure a free end of the connection tab back onto a proximalportion of the connection tab. The releasable fastening arrangement maytake other forms, such as clips or retainers that allow a friction,interference, snap or other mechanical fixing arrangement.

In some forms, the positioning and stabilising structure may furtherinclude a forehead support connector. In some forms, the foreheadsupport connector may extend generally in the direction of the sagittalplane and connects the rear support structure, or front support portion,to a superior edge region of the display unit. In some forms, theforehead support connector may comprise a strap. In some forms, thestrap of the forehead support connector may be resiliently extensiblealong at least a portion of its length. In some forms, the strap of theforehead support connector may be flexible along at least a portion ofits length.

In some forms, the forehead support connector may further include anadjustment mechanism for adjustment of the positioning and stabilisingstructure to fit different size heads. In some forms, the adjustmentmechanism may adjust the effective length of the strap of the foreheadsupport connector when the forehead support connector is in that form.

In some forms, the forehead support connector further comprises aforehead support rigidiser that provides rigidification to a portion ofthe forehead support connector. In some forms, the forehead supportrigidiser provides rigidification to a portion of the forehead supportconnector located along the frontal region of the user's head. Theextent and positioning of the forehead support rigidiser may assist incorrect positioning of the display unit and relieve pressure beingapplied to the zygomatic bone of the user. In some forms, the foreheadsupport rigidiser may be adjustable (angularly or translational) onother components of the forehead support connector (or adapted to beadjustable (angularly or translational) with respect to other componentsof the forehead support connector), such as the strap of the foreheadsupport connector, to allow fine positioning of the head mounted displayunit and assist in improving user comfort and fit.

In some forms, the positioning and stabilising structure furtherincludes additional rigidisers which may bridge other portions of thestructure, such as the rear support structure, front or back supportportions and/or connector arms. In some forms, these additionalrigidisers may assist in controlling the movement of the display unitabout the rear support structure to further stabilise and support thesystem. In some forms, these additional rigidisers may limit hingingmovement at the connection of the temporal connectors to the rearsupport structure. In some forms, these additional rigidisers may alsoextend along the occipital region of the rear support structure tofurther anchor the display unit in its correct operational position. Insome forms, these additional rigidisiers may be adjustable (angularly ortranslational) on other components of the forehead support connector (oradapted to be adjustable (angularly or translational) with respect toother components of the forehead support connector) to further assist incomfort, adjustability, and fit.

In some forms, the positioning and stabilising structure may allow forupward, e.g., superior, pivoting movement of the display unit to allowfor movement of the display unit to a nonoperational position withoutremoval of the positioning and stabilising structure (e.g., flip-upversion). In some forms, the pivoting movement of the display unitinvolves a pivoting arrangement which includes the positioning andstabilising structure. In some forms, this pivoting arrangement mayprovide a release mechanism at the forehead support connector and/orprovide limited hinging regions at the temporal connectors.

The positioning and stabilising structure in any form described abovemay be incorporated in a hood or other head wear either integratedtherein or releasably connected thereto. The positioning and stabilisingstructure may also include other components integrated therein such asaudio, tactile (haptic) stimulation or feedback.

Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacingstructure of the head mounted display system constructed and arranged tobe in opposing relation with the user's face.

In some forms, the interfacing structure comprises a face engagingsurface including one or more regions of silicone, or one or more layersof a textile material or foam.

In some forms, the interfacing structure may have varying compliance toallow more selective distribution of force onto a user's face. In someforms, one or more regions of the face engaging surface may be formed tohave varying thicknesses and/or varying surface finishes, whereby theresultant face engaging surface can have a variable compliancetherealong when compressed against a user's face in use.

In some forms, the interfacing structure comprises a face engagingportion, a support structure to support the face engaging portion inposition, and a chassis, which may be rigid (i.e., a rigid chassis).

Another aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacingstructure for a head mounted display system that extends about thedisplay and defines a viewing opening to the display. In some forms, theinterfacing structure may include a plurality of adjustable faceengaging portions being located at a respective one of the left andright hand sides of the interfacing structure. The adjustable faceengaging portions may be movable relative to each other.

In some forms, the adjustable face engaging portions may be movablerelative to a chassis of the interfacing structure. The interfacingstructure may include an adjustment mechanism, such as a sliding tab (ora slidable tab) or rack-and-pinion style adjustment mechanism, to allowa user to selectively adjust the spacing of the face engaging portions.

In some forms, the interfacing structure includes components and/orregions that are removably mountable to a housing of the display unit.

An aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted displaysystem including a positioning and stabilising structure structured andarranged to hold a display unit in an operational position over a user'sface. The positioning and stabilising structure includes a support hoopincluding a posterior support portion adapted to contact a posteriorregion of the user's head and an anterior support portion adapted tocontact an anterior region of the user's head. The posterior supportportion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a first plane andthe anterior support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend ina second plane, and each of the first plane of the posterior supportportion and the second plane of the anterior support portion is adaptedto extend transverse to the sagittal plane. The support hoop comprisesan offset configuration in which the posterior support portion is offsetfrom the anterior support portion so that the first plane of theposterior support portion is arranged in a different plane to the secondplane of the anterior support portion. In an example, the head-mounteddisplay system may further comprise the display unit.

An aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning andstabilising structure to hold a display unit in an operational positionover a user's face. The positioning and stabilising structure includes asupport hoop including a posterior support portion adapted to contact aposterior region of the user's head and an anterior support portionadapted to contact an anterior region of the user's head. The posteriorsupport portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a firstplane and the anterior support portion of the support hoop is adapted toextend in a second plane, and each of the first plane of the posteriorsupport portion and the second plane of the anterior support portion isadapted to extend transverse to the sagittal plane. The support hoopcomprises an offset configuration in which the posterior support portionis offset from the anterior support portion so that the first plane ofthe posterior support portion is arranged in a different plane to thesecond plane of the anterior support portion.

An aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted displaysystem including a positioning and stabilising structure structured andarranged to hold a display unit in an operational position over a user'sface. The positioning and stabilising structure includes a support hoopincluding a posterior support portion adapted to contact a posteriorregion of the user's head and an anterior support portion adapted tocontact an anterior region of the user's head. The posterior supportportion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a first plane andthe anterior support portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend ina second plane. Each of the first plane of the posterior support portionand the second plane of the anterior support portion is adapted toextend transverse to the sagittal plane. The posterior support portionand the anterior support portion are moveable relative to each otherinto at least one offset configuration in which the posterior supportportion is offset from the anterior support portion so that the firstplane of the posterior support portion is arranged in a different planeto the second plane of the anterior support portion. In an example, thehead-mounted display system may further comprise the display unit.

In an example, the head-mounted display system may further comprise anadjustment mechanism structured and arranged to allow selectableadjustment of the posterior support portion relative to the anteriorsupport portion. In an example, the adjustment mechanism may bestructured and arranged to allow selectable adjustment between (1) anin-line configuration in which the first plane of the posterior supportportion is arranged co-planar to the second plane of the anteriorsupport portion, and (2) the at least one offset configuration. In anexample, the at least one offset configuration may form a spacing ordisplacement between the first plane and the second plane, and theadjustment mechanism allows selectable adjustment of the spacing ordisplacement. In an example, the adjustment mechanism may allow angularadjustment of an angle formed between the first plane of the posteriorsupport portion and the second plane of the anterior support portion. Inan example, the posterior support portion may comprise an elastic strapthat is biased into contact with an occipital region of the user. In anexample, the posterior support portion may be configured and arrangedengage the user's head along a portion of the occipital bone. In anexample, the anterior support portion may be configured and arranged toengage the user's head along an upper portion of the frontal bone. In anexample, the head-mounted display system may further comprise at leastone connector structured and arranged to interconnect the posteriorsupport portion and the anterior support portion to the display unit. Inan example, the posterior support portion and the anterior supportportion in the offset configuration may create a moment configured tocounter-act or resist a moment induced by the display unit. In anexample, the posterior support portion may comprise an elastic strapthat is biased into contact with a portion of the occipital bone whichcreates an additional moment to counter-act or resist the moment inducedby the display unit. In an example, the display unit may comprise ahousing containing a display that is visible to the user when thedisplay unit is in the operational position, and an interfacingstructure constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with theuser's face, the interfacing structure extending about the display anddefining a viewing opening to the display. In an example, thepositioning and stabilising structure may further comprise a pair ofcentral support structures, each of the pair of central supportstructures adapted to be positioned around a respective one of theuser's ears, and wherein the display unit is rotatably connected to thepair of central support structures to enable the display unit to rotaterelative to Frankfort horizontal. In an example, at least one of theanterior support portion and the posterior support portion may berotatable relative to the pair of central support structures.

An aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning andstabilising structure to hold a display unit in an operational positionover a user's face. The positioning and stabilising structure includes asupport hoop including a posterior support portion adapted to contact aposterior region of the user's head and an anterior support portionadapted to contact an anterior region of the user's head. The posteriorsupport portion of the support hoop is adapted to extend in a firstplane and the anterior support portion of the support hoop is adapted toextend in a second plane, and each of the first plane of the posteriorsupport portion and the second plane of the anterior support portion isadapted to extend transverse to the sagittal plane. The posteriorsupport portion and the anterior support portion are moveable relativeto each other into at least one offset configuration in which theposterior support portion is offset from the anterior support portion sothat the first plane of the posterior support portion is arranged in adifferent plane to the second plane of the anterior support portion.

In an example, the positioning and stabilising structure may furthercomprise an adjustment mechanism structured and arranged to allowselectable adjustment of the posterior support portion relative to theanterior support portion. In an example, the adjustment mechanism may bestructured and arranged to allow selectable adjustment between (1) anin-line configuration in which the first plane of the posterior supportportion is arranged co-planar to the second plane of the anteriorsupport portion, and (2) the at least one offset configuration. In anexample, the at least one offset configuration may form a spacing ordisplacement between the first plane and the second plane, and theadjustment mechanism allows selectable adjustment of the spacing ordisplacement. In an example, the adjustment mechanism may allow angularadjustment of an angle formed between the first plane of the posteriorsupport portion and the second plane of the anterior support portion. Inan example, the posterior support portion may comprise an elastic strapthat is biased into contact with an occipital region of the user. In anexample, the posterior support portion may be configured and arrangedengage the user's head along a portion of the occipital bone. In anexample, the anterior support portion may be configured and arrangedengage the user's head along an upper portion of the frontal bone. In anexample, the positioning and stabilising structure may further compriseat least one at connector structured and arranged to interconnect theposterior support portion and the anterior support portion to thedisplay unit. In an example, the posterior support portion and theanterior support portion in the offset configuration may create a momentconfigured to counter-act or resist a moment induced by the displayunit. In an example, a portion of the posterior support portion maycomprise an elastic strap that is biased into contact with a portion ofthe occipital bone which creates an additional moment to counter-act orresist the moment induced by the display unit. In an example, thepositioning and stabilising structure may further comprise a pair ofcentral support structures, each of the pair of central supportstructures adapted to be positioned around a respective one of theuser's ears, and wherein the display unit is rotatably connectable tothe pair of central support structures to enable the display unit torotate relative to Frankfort horizontal. In an example, at least one ofthe anterior support portion and the posterior support portion may berotatable relative to the pair of central support structures.

An aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted displaysystem including a positioning and stabilising structure structured andarranged to hold a display unit in an operational position over a user'sface in use. The positioning and stabilising structure includes asupport portion configured and arranged to accommodate a weight of thehead-mounted display unit. The support portion comprises a pair ofcentral support structures, each of the pair of central supportstructures adapted to be positioned around a respective one of theuser's ears. In an example, the display unit may be rotatably connectedto the pair of central support structures to enable the display unit torotate relative to Frankfort horizontal. In an example, the head-mounteddisplay system may further comprise the display unit.

An aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning andstabilising structure to hold a display unit in an operational positionover a user's face. The positioning and stabilising structure includes asupport portion configured and arranged to accommodate a weight of thedisplay unit. The support portion comprises a pair of central supportstructures, each of the pair of central support structures adapted to bepositioned around a respective one of the user's ears. The display unitis rotatably connected to the pair of central support structures toenable the display unit to rotate relative to Frankfort horizontal.

An aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted displaysystem including a positioning and stabilising structure structured andarranged to hold a display unit in an operational position over a user'sface in use. The positioning and stabilising structure includes aposterior support portion adapted to contact a posterior region of theuser's head and an anterior support portion adapted to contact ananterior region of the user's head. The posterior support portioncomprises a rigidiser that is substantially inextensible andsubstantially resilient. The rigidiser comprises a plurality of slots onat least one side of the rigidiser, and the plurality of slots form aplurality of hinges. In an example, the head-mounted display system mayfurther comprise the display unit.

An aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning andstabilising structure to hold a display unit in an operational positionover a user's face. The positioning and stabilising structure includes aposterior support portion adapted to contact a posterior region of theuser's head and an anterior support portion adapted to contact ananterior region of the user's head. The posterior support portioncomprises a rigidiser that is substantially inextensible andsubstantially resilient. The rigidiser comprises a plurality of slots onat least one side of the rigidiser, and the plurality of slots form aplurality of hinges.

An aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted displaysystem including a positioning and stabilising structure structured andarranged to hold the display unit in an operational position over auser's face in use and an interfacing structure for the display unitconstructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with the user'sface. The interfacing structure comprises a substantially continuousface engaging surface adapted to contact the user's face around aperiphery of the user's eyes. The interfacing structure comprisessilicone. The interfacing structure is configured and arranged such thatforce applied to the user's face is distributed around the peripherythereof. The interfacing structure comprises a first compliance at afirst region and a second compliance at a second region, wherein thefirst region and the second region are configured around the peripheryof the interfacing structure to allow selective distribution of theforce onto the user's face. In an example, the head-mounted displaysystem may further comprise the display unit.

An aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacing structurefor a display unit constructed and arranged to be in opposing relationwith a user's face. The interfacing structure comprises a substantiallycontinuous face engaging surface adapted to contact the user's facearound a periphery of the user's eyes. The interfacing structurecomprises silicone. The interfacing structure is configured and arrangedsuch that force applied to the user's face is distributed around theperiphery thereof. The interfacing structure includes a first complianceat a first region and a second compliance at a second region, whereinthe first region and the second region are configured around theperiphery of the interfacing structure to allow selective distributionof the force onto the user's face.

An aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted displaysystem including a positioning and stabilising structure structured andarranged to hold a display unit in an operational position over a user'sface in use and an interfacing structure for the display unitconstructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with the user'sface, the interfacing structure extending about a display that isvisible to the user when the display unit is in the operational positionand defining (or forming) a viewing opening to the display. Theinterfacing structure comprises face engaging portions located at arespective one of left and right hand sides of the viewing opening, theface engaging portions structured and arranged to be slidably movablerelative to each other. In an example, the head-mounted display systemmay further comprise the display unit.

An aspect of the present technology relates to an interfacing structurefor a display unit constructed and arranged to be in opposing relationwith a user's face. The interfacing structure extends about a displaythat is visible to the user when the display unit is in an operationalposition and defines a viewing opening to the display. The interfacingstructure includes moveable face engaging portions located at arespective one of left and right hand sides of the viewing opening, themoveable face engaging portions structured and arranged to be slidablymovable relative to each other.

Another aspect of the present technology relates to a headmounted-display system or assembly including a positioning andstabilising structure and/or an interfacing structure in any formdescribed above, and a display unit connected thereto.

Another aspect of the present technology comprises a virtual realitydisplay interface or apparatus comprising examples of the aspects of thehead-mounted display system described above.

In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system describedabove, the display unit comprises a display configured to selectivelyoutput computer generated images that are visible to the user in anoperational position.

In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system describedabove, the display unit comprises a housing.

In some forms, the housing supports a display.

In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system describedabove, the display unit comprises an interfacing structure coupled tothe housing and arranged to be in opposing relation with the user's facein the operational position.

In some forms, the interfacing structure at least partially forms aviewing opening configured to at least partially receive the user's facein the operational position.

In some forms, the interfacing structure being constructed at leastpartially from an opaque material configured to at least partially blockambient light from reaching the viewing opening in the operationalposition.

In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system describedabove, the display unit comprises at least one lens coupled to thehousing and disposed within the viewing opening and aligned with thedisplay so that in the operational position.

In some forms, the user can view the display through the at least onelens.

In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system describedabove, a control system having at least one sensor in communication witha processor.

In some forms, the at least one sensor configured to measure a parameterand communicate a measured value to the processor.

In some forms, the processor configured to change the computer generatedimages output by the display based on the measured value.

Another aspect of the present technology comprises an augmented realitydisplay interface or apparatus comprising examples of the aspects of thehead-mounted display system described above.

In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system describedabove, the display unit comprises a display constructed from atransparent or translucent material and configured to selectivelyprovide computer generated images viewable by the user.

In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system describedabove, the display unit comprises a housing.

In some forms, the housing supports a display.

In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system describedabove, the display unit comprises an interfacing structure coupled tothe housing and arranged to be in opposing relation with the user's facein the operational position.

In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system describedabove, in an operational position, the positioning and stabilizingstructure configured to support the display unit.

In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system describedabove, the display configured to be aligned with the user's eyes in anoperation position such that the user may at least partially view aphysical environment through the display regardless of the computergenerated images output by the display.

In examples of the aspects of the head-mounted display system describedabove, the head-mounted display system further comprising a controlsystem having at least one sensor in communication with a processor.

In some forms, the at least one sensor configured to measure a parameterand communicate a measured value to the processor.

In some forms, the processor configured to change the computer generatedimages output by the display based on the measured value.

In some forms, the at least one lens includes a first lens configured tobe aligned with the user's left eye in the operational position and asecond lens configured to be aligned with the user's right eye in theoperational position

In some forms, the first lens and the second lens are Fresnel lenses.

In some forms, the display comprises a binocular display partitionedinto a first section and a second section, the first section alignedwith the first lens and the second section aligned with the second lens.

In some forms, a controller having at least one button selectivelyengageable by a user's finger, the controller being in communicationwith the processor and configured to send a signal to the processor whenthe at least one button is engaged, the processor configured to changethe computer generated images output by the display based on the signal.

In some forms, the at least one lens includes a first lens configured tobe aligned with the user's left eye in the operational position and asecond lens configured to be aligned with the user's right eye in theoperational position.

Of course, portions of the aspects may form sub-aspects of the presenttechnology. Also, various ones of the sub-aspects and/or aspects may becombined in various manners and also constitute additional aspects orsub-aspects of the present technology.

Other features of the technology will be apparent from consideration ofthe information contained in the following detailed description,abstract, drawings and claims.

4 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present technology is illustrated by way of example, and not by wayof limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in whichlike reference numerals refer to similar elements including:

4.1 FACIAL ANATOMY

FIG. 1 a is a front view of a face with several features of surfaceanatomy identified including the endocanthion, superciliary arch andepicranius, lip superior, upper vermilion, nasal ala, nasolabial sulcusand cheilion. Also indicated is the left and right side of the sagittalplane and the directions superior, inferior, radially inward andradially outward.

FIG. 1 b is a side view of a head with several features of surfaceanatomy identified including the temporomandibular joint, glabella,sellion, nasal bridge, zygomatic arch/bone, otobasion superior, externaloccipital protuberance, otobasion inferior, pronasale, subnasale, alarcrest point and the temporalis muscle. Also indicated are the directionssuperior & inferior, and anterior & posterior.

FIG. 1 c is a further side view of a head. The approximate location ofthe Frankfort horizontal is indicated. The coronal plane is alsoindicated.

FIG. 1 d shows a lateral view of a skull with the outline of the surfaceof a head, as well as several muscles. The following bones are shown:frontal, sphenoid, nasal, zygomatic, maxilla, mandible, parietal,temporal and occipital. The following muscles are shown: masseter minorand trapezius.

FIG. 1 e shows an anterolateral view of a nose. The following bones areshown: frontal, supraorbital foramen, nasal, septal cartilage, lateralcartilage, orbit and infraorbital foramen.

4.2 SHAPE OF STRUCTURES

FIG. 2 a shows a schematic of a cross-section through a structure at apoint P. An outward normal at the point P is indicated. The curvature atthe point P has a positive sign, and a relatively large magnitude whencompared to the magnitude of the curvature shown in FIG. 2 b.

FIG. 2 b shows a schematic of a cross-section through a structure at apoint. An outward normal at the point is indicated. The curvature at thepoint has a positive sign, and a relatively small magnitude whencompared to the magnitude of the curvature shown in FIG. 2 a.

FIG. 2 c shows a schematic of a cross-section through a structure at apoint. An outward normal at the point is indicated. The curvature at thepoint has a value of zero.

FIG. 2 d shows a schematic of a cross-section through a structure at apoint. An outward normal at the point is indicated. The curvature at thepoint has a negative sign, and a relatively small magnitude whencompared to the magnitude of the curvature shown in FIG. 2 e.

FIG. 2 e shows a schematic of a cross-section through a structure at apoint. An outward normal at the point is indicated. The curvature at thepoint has a negative sign, and a relatively large magnitude whencompared to the magnitude of the curvature shown in FIG. 2 d.

FIGS. 2 f, 2 g and 2 h show a seal forming structure. An exteriorsurface of the cushion is indicated in FIG. 2 f . An edge of the surfaceis indicated in FIG. 2 g . A path on the surface between points A and Bis indicated in FIG. 2 g . A straight-line distance between A and B isindicated in FIG. 2 g . Two saddle regions and a dome region areindicated in FIG. 2 h.

FIG. 2 i shows a left ear, including the left ear helix.

FIG. 2 j shows a right-hand helix.

FIG. 2 k shows a right ear, including the right ear helix.

FIG. 2 l illustrates a left-hand rule.

FIG. 2 m illustrates a right-hand rule.

FIG. 2 n shows the surface of a structure, with a one-dimensional holein the surface. The illustrated plane curve forms the boundary of aone-dimensional hole.

FIG. 2 o shows a cross-section through the structure of FIG. 2 n . Theillustrated surface bounds a two-dimensional hole in the structure ofFIG. 2 n.

FIG. 2 p shows a perspective view of the structure of FIG. 2 n ,including the two-dimensional hole and the one-dimensional hole. Alsoshown is the surface that bounds a two-dimensional hole in the structureof FIG. 2 n.

4.3 HEAD MOUNTED DISPLAY

4.3.1 Positioning and Stabilising Structure

FIGS. 3 a to 3 c are respective side, front and top views of apositioning and stabilising structure of a head-mounted display systemaccording to a first example of the present technology.

FIG. 3 d is a cross-sectional view of a temporal arm of the head-mounteddisplay assembly of FIGS. 3 a to 3 c according to an example of thepresent technology.

FIG. 3 e is a cross-sectional view of a temporal arm of the head-mounteddisplay assembly of FIGS. 3 a to 3 c according to another example of thepresent technology.

FIGS. 4 a to 4 c are respective side, front and top views of apositioning and stabilising structure of a head mounted display systemaccording to a second example of the present technology.

FIGS. 5 a to 5 c are respective side, front and top views of apositioning and stabilising structure of a head-mounted display systemaccording to a third example of the present technology.

FIG. 6 is a side view of a positioning and stabilising structure ofhead-mounted display system according to a fourth example of the presenttechnology.

FIGS. 7 a to 7 c are respective side, front and top views of ahead-mounted display system according to a variation of the fourthexample of the present technology.

FIG. 8 is a top view of a head-mounted display assembly in-use accordingto a variation of the fourth example of the present technology.

FIGS. 9 a and 9 b are side views of a positioning and stabilisingstructure of a head-mounted display system according to an example ofthe present technology.

FIGS. 10 a to 10 c are side views of a positioning and stabilisingstructure of a head-mounted display system according to an example ofthe present technology.

FIGS. 11 a to 11 c are schematic side views of a positioning andstabilising structure of a head-mounted display system according to anexample of the present technology.

FIGS. 12 a and 12 b are schematic side views of a positioning andstabilising structure of a head-mounted display system according to anexample of the present technology.

FIG. 12 c is a schematic side view of the positioning and stabilisingstructure of a head mounted display system illustrating adjustabilitycharacteristics according to an example of the present technology.

FIGS. 13 a and 13 b are schematic side views of positioning andstabilising structures including forehead support arrangements of ahead-mounted display system according to examples of the presenttechnology.

FIG. 14 a is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilisingstructure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 14 b is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilisingstructure with a frontal portion configured in examples of first andsecond configurations according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 14 c is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilisingstructure illustrating vector locations according to an example of thepresent technology.

FIG. 14 d is a schematic side view of a positioning and stabilisingstructure with a display unit configured in examples of first and secondconfigurations according to an example of the present technology.

4.3.2 Interfacing Structures

FIG. 15 a is a split front view across axis A-A of the interfacingstructure in use according to an example of the present technology, theleft-hand side showing the location of the interfacing structure and theright-hand side showing approximate facial areas that are engaged by theinterfacing structure.

FIG. 15 b is a side view of the interfacing structure of FIG. 15 a , inuse.

FIGS. 16 a, 16 b, and 16 c are side, top and frontal superior views,respectively, of the interfacing structure in use according to a secondexample of the present technology.

FIG. 17 a is a side cross section view through axis B-B of FIG. 16 c ,showing the support structure and face engaging surface according to anexample of the present technology.

FIG. 17 b is a side cross section view through axis B-B of FIG. 16 c ,showing the support structure and face engaging surface, furthercomprising a supporting flange, according to a second example of thepresent technology.

FIG. 18 is a frontal superior view of the interfacing structure in useaccording to a third example of the present technology.

FIG. 19 is a partial frontal superior view of the interfacing structurein use according to a fourth example of the present technology.

FIGS. 20 a, 20 b, 20 c and 20 d are perspective views of the interfacingstructure in use according to a fifth example of the present technology.

FIG. 21 a is a side cross section view through axis C-C of FIG. 20 b ,showing a face engaging surface that includes a foam cushion attacheddirectly to an upper portion of the support structure according to anexample of the present technology.

FIG. 21 b is a side cross section view through axis C-C of FIG. 20 b ,showing a face engaging surface that covers a foam cushion, the foamcushion being attached directly to an upper portion of the supportstructure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 22 is a rear view of the interfacing structure in use, theinterfacing structure being adjustable in width W according to a sixthexample of the present technology.

FIGS. 23 a and 23 b are cross-section views from below of the adjustableinterfacing structure in use, at a wider lens width XX and narrower lenswidth YY respectively according to an example of the present technology.The lens width is measured from a central axis (e.g. axis E-E) of thefirst lens to a central axis (e.g. axis D-D) of the second lens.

FIG. 24 is a rear view of the interfacing structure in use according toa seventh example of the present technology.

4.3.3 Anthropometric Data Models

FIGS. 25 a and 25 b are an anthropometric data model of sizing andclustering based on head shape variation according to an example of thepresent technology.

FIGS. 26 a and 26 b are an anthropometric data model of sizing based onnominated facial zones according to an example of the presenttechnology.

FIGS. 27 a and 27 b are an anthropometric data model of sizing based onanthropometrical landmarks according to an example of the presenttechnology.

4.3.4 Materials

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of a positioning and stabilisingstructure according to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view of a positioning and stabilisingstructure according to another example of the present technology.

FIG. 30 is a close-up side view of an engagement structure (e.g.,interfacing structure or positioning and stabilising structure) applyinga pressure against a user's head when the engagement structure is in useaccording to an example of the present technology, wherein pressure isthe force exerted on a surface divided by the area over which that forceacts.

FIG. 31 is a close-up side view of an engagement structure twisting T toimprove engagement and thus achieve even (or uniform) distribution of apressure against a user's head when the engagement structure is in useaccording to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 32 is a close-up front view of a positioning and stabilisingstructure over at least a portion (e.g., the crown) of a user's headaccording to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 33 is a close-up top view of an elastic portion of a positioningand stabilising structure in the form of a strap according to an exampleof the present technology.

FIG. 34 is a close-up side view of an engagement structure that islocally compliant when engaging a protrusion of a user's head, when theengagement structure is in use according to an example of the presenttechnology.

4.3.5 Examples of VR and AR Head-Mounted Display Apparatus

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a VR head-mounted display apparatusaccording to an example of the present technology.

FIG. 36 is a schematic view of a controller and control system accordingto an example of the present technology.

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of an AR head-mounted display apparatusaccording to an example of the present technology.

5 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF THE TECHNOLOGY

Before the present technology is described in further detail, it is tobe understood that the technology is not limited to the particularexamples described herein, which may vary. It is also to be understoodthat the terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose ofdescribing only the particular examples discussed herein, and is notintended to be limiting.

The following description is provided in relation to various exampleswhich may share one or more common characteristics and/or features. Itis to be understood that one or more features of any one example may becombinable with one or more features of another example or otherexamples. In addition, any single feature or combination of features inany of the examples may constitute a further example.

The head-mounted display system according to examples of the presenttechnology is structured and arranged to provide a balanced system,i.e., not overly tight at any singular point along the user's headand/or face, while providing a substantially complete sealing around theuser's eyes, i.e., to provide or facilitate immersion in the use ofvirtual reality head-mounted displays. That is, the head-mounted displaysystem according to examples of the present technology provides a moreeven fit that is structured and arranged to distribute pressure (e.g.,universal and regional load distribution) in a comfortable stable mannerto lessen hot spots or localised stress points.

Also, the head-mounted display system according to examples of thepresent technology comprises soft and flexible (e.g., elastic) materials(e.g., breathable material, e.g., textile-foam composite) structured andarranged to allow more conformity to the user's head and cushioning forcomfort. In addition, the head-mounted display system according toexamples of the present technology comprises simple adjustmentmechanisms to facilitate adjustment while on the user's head and allow awide fit range.

5.1 HEAD MOUNTED DISPLAYS

5.1.1 Positioning and Stabilising Structure

To hold the display unit in its correct operational position, thehead-mounted display system further comprises a positioning andstabilising structure that is disposed on the user's head. Thepositioning and stabilising structures that are comfortable need to beable to accommodate the induced loading from the weight of the displayunit in a manner that minimises facial markings and discomfort fromprolonged use. There is also need to allow for a universal fit withouttrading off comfort, usability and cost of manufacture. The designcriteria may include adjustability over a predetermined range withlow-touch simple set up solutions that have a low dexterity threshold.Further considerations include catering for the dynamic environment inwhich the head mounted display system may be used. As part of theimmersive experience of a virtual environment, users may communicate,i.e., speak, while using the head mounted display system. In this way,the jaw or mandible of the user may move relative to other bones of theskull. Additionally, the whole head may move during the course of aperiod of use of the head-mounted display system, e.g., virtual realitydisplay. For example, movement may include a user's upper body, and insome cases lower body, and in particular, movement of the head relativeto the upper and lower body.

FIGS. 3 a and 3 b show a positioning and stabilising structure 14 for ahead-mounted display system or assembly 10 according to a first exampleof the present technology. The head-mounted display system 10 comprisesa head-mounted display unit 12 (or display unit 12), and the positioningand stabilising structure 14 to maintain the display unit 12 in anoperational position over a user's face in use.

The display unit 12 includes a user interfacing structure 11 constructedand arranged to be in opposing relation with the user's face, i.e., theuser interfacing structure is facing or placed opposite the user's faceas shown in FIG. 3 c . The user interfacing structure 11 extends about adisplay contained by the display unit housing 22. The user interfacingstructure 11 may extend about the display and define a viewing opening(i.e., an opening for viewing) to the display. The user interfacingstructure 11 extends around the user's eyes, and may engage (e.g., lightsealing) with the user's face, e.g., along the user's nose, cheeksand/or forehead.

In the illustrated example of FIGS. 3 a to 3 c , the positioning andstabilising structure 14 comprises a rear support hoop 16 (also referredto as a rear support structure) adapted to contact regions of a user'shead (e.g., positionable at a crown of the user's head) and at least oneconnector structured and arranged to interconnect (or connect) the rearsupport hoop 16 to the display unit 12. In the illustrated example, theat least one connector comprises opposing temporal connectors 18disposed on respective sides of the user's head that interconnect therear support hoop 16 to respective posterior edge regions 20 of thedisplay unit housing 22 of the display unit 12, and a forehead supportconnector 24 that extends across the frontal bone of the user tointerconnect (or connect) the rear support hoop 16 with a superior edgeregion 21 of the display unit housing 22. However, it should beappreciated that one or more connectors may be provided to interconnectthe rear support hoop 16 to the head-mounted display unit 12.

5.1.1.1 Temporal Connectors

Each of the opposing temporal connectors 18 comprises a temporal arm 26.Each temporal arm 26 includes an anterior end 28 mounted to therespective posterior edge region 20 of the display unit housing 22, anda posterior end 30 that forms part of a releasable coupling to connectthe temporal arm 26 to the rear support hoop 16.

In some forms, each temporal arm 26 comprises a rigidiser 32, aresilient (e.g., elastomeric and/or textile) component 34, and a tab 36arranged at the posterior end 30 for connecting to the rear support hoop16. In an example, a portion of each of the temporal arms 26, in-use, isin contact with a region of the user's head proximal to the otobasionsuperior, i.e., above the user's ear. In an example, the temporal arms26 are arranged in-use to run generally along or parallel to theFrankfort Horizontal plane of the head and superior to the zygomaticbone, i.e., above the user's cheek bone.

An advantage of the positioning and stabilising structure 14 is that itis relatively self-supporting and/or able to hold its shape withoutbeing worn. This can make it more intuitive or obvious for users tounderstand how to use the positioning and stabilising structure and maycontrast with a positioning and stabilising structure that is entirelyfloppy and does not retain a shape. In one form, the rigidisers providethe self-supporting aspect of the positioning and stabilising structure.

5.1.1.2 Rigidisers

In some forms of the technology, for example in the rigidisers 32, therigidisers 32 can take the form of stiffened and/or thickened elements.In one form, the rigidisers 32 may be encapsulated within the resilient(e.g., elastomeric and/or textile) component 34 of each temporal arm 26.For example, FIG. 3 d shows an example of the resilient component 34(e.g., elastomeric and/or textile) in the form of a cover configured toencapsulate the rigidiser 32. In this example, the textile component 34includes a face contacting side arranged on one side of the rigidiser 32that can provide a soft, face contacting surface 35 adapted to contactthe user's face in use. In some alternative forms, the rigidiser may bestitched or otherwise attached (e.g., overmolded) to the resilientcomponent 34, or the resilient component can be made of materials thatcan be selectively rigidized by heat treatment. For example, FIG. 3 eshows an example of the resilient component 34 (e.g., elastomeric and/ortextile) attached to a face contacting side of the rigidiser 32 that canprovide a soft, face contacting surface 35 adapted to contact the user'sface in use. In an example, the resilient component 34 may comprise atextile material or a textile-foam composite (e.g., breathable material,e.g., multi-layered construction including an outer textile layer and aninner foam layer) to provide a soft support for the rigidiser 32 tocushion against the user's head for optimised comfort. The rigidiser 32can allow each temporal arm 26, or other component to which it isconnected or formed, to retain an in-use shape and configuration whennot worn by a user. Advantageously, maintaining the temporal arms 26 inthe in-use state prior to use may prevent or limit distortion whilst theuser is donning the positioning and stabilising structure and allow auser to quickly fit or wear the display system 10.

In an example, the rigidiser 32 can be made from a rigid material, e.g.,Hytrel® (thermoplastic polyester elastomer). In the example of FIGS. 3 ato 3 c , the rigid nature, i.e., inextensibility, of the rigidiser 32 ofeach temporal arm 26 limits the magnitude of elongation or deformationof the temporal arm 26 while in-use. Advantageously, this configurationenables a more effective, i.e., direct, translation of tension throughthe temporal arm 26.

In another example, the positioning and stabilising structure may bedesigned so that, e.g., the positioning and stabilising structuresprings ‘out of the box’ and generally into its in-use configuration orshape. In addition, the positioning and stabilising structure may bearranged to hold its in-use shape once out of the box, for example, arigidiser may be formed to maintain the shape of some or part of thepositioning and stabilising structure. Advantageously, the orientationof the positioning and stabilising structure is made clear to the user,as the shape of the positioning and stabilising structure is generallycurved, e.g., much like the rear portion of the user's head. That is,the positioning and stabilising structure is generally dome shaped.

Another aspect of the positioning and stabilising structure describedherein is to direct the display unit 12 to direct contact with theuser's face, that is, the forces, i.e., force vectors, of thepositioning and stabilising structure may cause the display unit toapply pressure perpendicular or normal to the user's face.

In an example, the rigidiser 32 forms a lever-arm (such as rigidiser arm32), i.e., a means to pivot, about the rear support hoop 16.Advantageously, the rear support hoop 16 can provide an anchor point forthe positioning and stabilising structure 14, thus forming a pivotpoint. The rigidiser may articulate about the anchor point of the rearsupport hoop 16 to enable the forehead support connector 24 to raise orlower the position of the display unit 12 relative to the user's nose.Advantageously, this configuration can minimise the magnitude ofclamping pressure to stabilise the display unit 12 on the user's head.

In some forms of the present technology, the rigidiser may be curved,such that it take a crescent, semi-circular or partial crescent shape.

The rigidiser arm 32 may have a generally elongate and flatconfiguration (e.g., see FIG. 3 a ). In other words, the rigidiser armis longer and wider (direction from top to bottom in the paper plane)than thick (direction into the paper plane). In an example, thethickness and/or width of the rigidiser arm 32 may vary along at least aportion of its length, e.g., rigidiser arm 32 may include wider andthinner sections along its length to facilitate connection and todistribute load.

While the rigidiser arm may be flat as represented in FIGS. 3 a to 5 c ,it will be appreciated that the rigidiser arm may have a desired spatialconfiguration in the direction into the paper plane (e.g., see FIGS. 6and 7 a to 7 c), particularly in order to allow improved alignment withthe shape of a user's face, such as the shape of a side region of auser's head (e.g., see FIGS. 7 a to 7 c ). Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7 ato 7 c, the rigidiser arm has a three-dimensional shape which hascurvature in all three axes (X, Y and Z). Although the thickness of therigidiser arm may be substantially uniform, its height or width variesthroughout its length. The purpose of the shape and dimension of therigidiser arm 32 is to conform closely to the head of the user in orderto remain unobtrusive and maintain a low profile (i.e., not appearoverly bulky).

The rigidiser arm may have a longitudinal axis which may be understoodto be the axis substantially parallel to the paper plane, along whichthe rigidiser arm extends (see dashed line in FIG. 5 a and FIG. 7 a asexamples).

In some forms of the technology, the rigidiser (such as rigidiser arm32) is more rigid than the resilient (e.g., elastomeric and/or textile)component 34 and less rigid than the display unit housing 22. Inparticular, the rigidiser arm and/or the resilient component are suchthat, in combination, the rigidiser arm imparts a shape, and anincreased degree of rigidity, in at least one direction or in or aroundat least one axis, to the resilient component.

The rigidiser 32 may be able to bend or deform along its length butresist or prevent stretching of the positioning and stabilisingstructure along the longitudinal axis of the rigidiser (see dashed linein FIG. 5 a and FIG. 7 a ). As indicated in FIGS. 5 a and 7 a , thelongitudinal axis of the rigidiser extends along the length of therigidiser (e.g., generally through its center) and may be straight (FIG.5 a ) or curved (FIG. 7 a ). The rigidiser may be substantiallyinextensible and resilient. A rigidiser in accordance with the presenttechnology preferably has one or more of the following features: holdsit shape, allows components to redirect force, i.e., force vectors,around curves such as around the cheeks, or around the ears, ability toflex and/or in certain planes provides a structure to maintain apredefined form.

In one form, the rigidiser 32 can be flexible or able to conform to theuser's head along the longitudinal axis of the rigidiser. In one form,the rigidiser, however, may be structured such that it cannot flex ordeform across its width. This is so that the positioning and stabilisingstructure is comfortable whilst maintaining its structural function ofanchoring the display in position (e.g., rigidiser is flexible in onedirection (into the user's head) while provide support or load bearingin another direction).

In some forms, the rigidiser 32 may have bows or bends. Bends may beprovided in one or more select region(s) of the rigidiser to allow therigidiser to readily flex or hinge at the region(s). Bends may beweakened regions to achieve a flexibility in the rigidiser so that theweakened portions act as living hinges. This flexibility may bebeneficial for fitting a larger range of user head sizes. The bends maybe positioned so as to allow portions of the rigidiser to flex outwardstowards the ears of the user and/or inwards towards the centre of theuser's head.

In some forms, the rigidiser 32 comprises a plurality of slots (e.g., oneach side of the arm, i.e., slots on anterior and posterior sides of thearm), and the plurality of slots form a plurality of hinges along thecomponent (such as temporal connector 18). The hinges form flexibleportions in each arm. The hinges allow the arms to articulate andconform to micro variations of the cheek region and distribute load onthe face more evenly upon headgear tension, e.g., when compared to arigidiser arm without any flexible portions. In some forms, where therigidisers are elongate extending in a general longitudinal direction,the hinges and/or weakened regions may extend transverse to thelongitudinal direction or may extend in the longitudinal direction toincrease the degree of conformity allowed.

In some forms, the slots are generally parallel to one another,generally evenly spaced apart from one another, and include similarwidths and depths into the thickness of the arm. However, it should beappreciated that the slots may include other suitable arrangements andconfigurations to modify the location and flexibility characteristics ofthe arm, e.g., number of slots, slots on one or both sides of the arm(anterior and/or posterior sides), spacing between slots, width, depth,orientation or angle of slot on the arm (e.g., slots angled relative toone another to provide bending in different orientations). In anexample, one or more of the slots may be filled with a flexiblematerial, e.g., the narrow depression or groove formed by the slot mayreceive a flexible material. In an alternative example, the hinge may beprovided by a plurality of flexible sections (e.g., flexible sectionformed by a flexible or bendable material) spaced apart by rigidsegments.

In some forms, the rigidiser 32 may comprise a material to guide ordefine the direction or path of stretch for the resilient (e.g.,elastomeric and/or textile) component, i.e., of the rear support hoop16. In other words, the user stretches the positioning and stabilisingstructure 14 in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinalaxis of the rigidiser 32 (see dashed line in FIG. 7 a ). Stretching ofthe positioning and stabilising structure 14 in other directions leadsto rotation of the rigidiser relative to the display unit housing 22which is undesirable. The rigidity of the rigidiser biases the rigidisertowards its natural, unrotated, untwisted and undeformed state. To somedegree, this enables the positioning and stabilising structure 14 to bea self-adjusting head-mounted display system. In an example, therigidiser may be biased to a particular size (such as a relatively smallfit), and the rigidiser can adjust to the user's head such as by openingup or flexing outwardly to scale head size, thereby conforming to theshape of the user's head and providing support as required.

In some forms, a resilient (e.g. elastomeric and/or textile) componentmay encapsulate the rigidiser. For example, a textile may beover-moulded onto one side of the rigidiser (e.g., see FIG. 3 e ). Therigidiser may be encapsulated within a suitable resilient (e.g.elastomeric and/or textile) material to improve user comfort andwearability (e.g., see FIG. 3 d ). The textile may be arranged on theuser contacting side of the rigidiser to provide a soft contact with theuser's skin.

In some forms, the rigidiser may be formed separately from the resilientcomponent and then a sock (i.e., a cover or an enclosure) comprising auser contacting material (e.g., Breath-O-Prene™) may be wrapped or slidover the rigidiser. In alternative embodiments, the rigidiser may bemade by adhesive, ultrasonic welding, sewing, hook and loop material,and/or stud connectors. In an embodiment, the user contacting material(i.e., a soft or comfortable material (e.g., Breath-O-Prene™) arrangedto contact the user's skin in use) may be on both sides of therigidiser, or alternatively may only be on the user contacting side ofthe rigidiser to reduce bulk and cost of materials.

The rigidiser may also be formed by a layer of additional materialapplied to the resilient component, such as silicone, polyurethane orother tacky material, that may be applied to the resilient component toreinforce the resilient component. Silicone beading or polymericover-moulding may also be used.

The rigidiser may have a composite construction with two or morematerials (rigid or semi-rigid material). For example, the rigidiser maybe constructed by thickening or treating a textile such that it isstiffer or impedes the stretch of the material. In an example, thetextile may be printed on such that the ink from the print restrains orreduces the capacity of the textile to stretch. Additionally, thetextile may be stitched in selected regions to stiffen it. Also, thetextile may be ultrasonically welded in selected regions to stiffen it.

In some alternative forms, the rigidiser may be constructed from anon-woven material, for example netting, such that it is resistant tostretching in at least one direction. The rigidiser may alternatively beformed from a woven material, where the grain of the material is alignedsuch that the textile may not stretch in the lateral direction to secureand anchor the positioning and stabilising structure when in use.

In an example, the rigidiser can be formed from Hytrel® and the displayunit housing 22 may be formed from polypropylene (PP). PP is athermoplastic polymer with good resistance to fatigue. Hytrel® isdesirable for forming the rigidiser 32 because this material isresistant to creep. Since these materials cannot be integrally bonded,the display unit housing 22 may be overmolded to the rigidiser 32 toform a secure connection, i.e., a joint between the anterior end 28 ofthe arm 26 and the posterior edge regions 20 of the display unit housing22.

In alternative forms, the rigidiser (such as the rigidiser arm) may bemade from TPE which provides high elastic properties. For example, aDynaflex™ TPE compound or Medalist® MD-1 15 may be used. The housing maybe made from polypropylene (PP) material. An advantage of the rigidiserbeing moulded in TPE may be that it enables the rigidiser and thedisplay unit housing to be permanently connected to each other. In otherwords, a fusion bond or chemical bond (molecular adhesion) is formedbetween the two components.

The joint that connects the rigidiser to the display unit housing mayprovide a targeted point of flexibility and the joint may be shaped andformed to allow flexing in a desired direction and degree. Thus, oncethe head-mounted display system is donned and the temporal arms 26 arestressed by tension from the rear support hoop 16 of the positioning andstabilising structure 14, the rigidiser 32 may flex at the joints toallow them to retain a face framing shape while helping to retain thetemporal arms 26 in a desired position relative to the user's face.

Although the rigidiser and display unit housing have been described aspermanently connected to each other, it is envisaged that the rigidiser(i.e., temporal arm) may be detachable from the display unit housing,for example, by a mechanical clip (snap-fit) assembly. This arrangementmay provide a modular system with exchangeable display units and/orpositioning and stabilising structures.

5.1.1.3 Rear Support Hoop (or Support Hoop)

The rear support hoop 16 may have a ring-like form (similar to thering-like form of rear support hoop 316 shown in FIG. 7 b ) and bearranged to have a three-dimensional contour curve to fit or conform tothe shape of the rear of the user's head, e.g., a user's crown. In anexample, the support hoop provides a hoop-like or ring-like arrangement(e.g., closed loop) adapted to enclose or encircle a portion of theuser's head therebetween. It should be appreciated that the support hoopis not limited to a circular or round shape, e.g., support hoop may beoval or part circular/oval or C-shaped. The rear support hoop 16comprises a parietal portion or parietal strap portion 38, adapted to bein proximity to the parietal bone of the user's head when in use, and anoccipital portion or occipital strap portion 40, adapted to be inproximity to the occipital bone of the user's head when in use. In anexample, the occipital portion 40 is preferably arranged along a portionof the occipital bone when in use, e.g., along a portion of theoccipital bone adjacent or near a junction where the neck muscles attachto the occipital bone, and the parietal portion 38 is preferablyarranged rearward of the coronal plane when in use. In an example, theoccipital portion 40 is adapted to be positioned along a portion of theoccipital bone and above a junction where the neck muscles attach to theoccipital bone. The junction may also be referred to as the externaloccipital protuberance (EOP). However, the exact location of theoccipital portion 40 on the user's head may vary depending on the sizeand shape of the user's head with which the occipital portion 40 isbeing used, e.g., the occipital portion 40 may be positioned adjacentto, above, or below a portion of the occipital bone where the neckmuscles attach to the occipital bone. In an example, the occipitalportion 40 may be arranged beneath or underneath the occipital bone nearthe junction where the neck muscles attach. This hoop-like arrangement(e.g., ring-like, circular or oval or part circular/oval or C-shaped) ofthe rear support hoop 16 anchors the positioning and stabilisingstructure 14 around the rear or rear bump of the user's head, whichprovides an effective support structure to hold weight (i.e., thedisplay unit) at the front of the user's head. The rear support hoop 16may be formed from an elastic material, which elasticity may be used tostretch the hoop and securely hold the rear support hoop 16 in position.

In an example, the three-dimensional shape of the rear support hoop mayhave a generally round three-dimensional shape adapted to cup theparietal bone and occipital bone of the user's head in use.

In an example, the occipital portion 40 engages with the occipital bonein order to maintain the occipital portion 40 and the rear support hoop16 in position and prevent the positioning and stabilising structurefrom riding up the back of the user's head. Further, the parietalportion 38 could capture or pass over the upper part of the user'sparietal bone, so as to prevent the positioning and stabilisingstructure from slipping back down the user's head.

The rear support hoop 16 further comprises opposing connection straps ortabs 42 (e.g., see FIG. 3 a ).

In an example, the rear support hoop 16 is orientated in a generallyvertical direction, i.e., arranged in a vertical plane generallyparallel to the coronal plane. This arrangement of the rear support hoop16 appropriately orients the rear support hoop 16 at the crown of theuser's head to support the transverse, i.e., horizontal, tension appliedby the connection straps 42 and support the weight of the display unit12.

The rear support hoop 16 and connection straps 42 may be formed from anelastic and/or textile material to assist conforming to the shape of auser's head, e.g., rear support hoop 16 and connection straps 42 providestretch capacity. Also, such elastic and/or textile material at the backof the user's head may allow easier lifting of the display unit 12 awayfrom the user's face, e.g., move the display unit 12 away from theuser's eyes to talk to someone while the positioning and stabilisingstructure 14 remains on the user's head. For example, the rear supporthoop 16 may be a neoprene material, or other textile-foam composite(e.g., breathable material, e.g., multi-layered construction includingat an outer textile layer and an inner foam layer), or spacer fabric.Advantageously, textiles can provide a soft support structure tostabilise the display unit 12 on a user's head and allow the positioningand stabilising structure 14 to cushion against the user's head foroptimised comfort.

The rear support hoop, including portions of the temporal arms 26, maybe stretchable. This enables the positioning and stabilising structure14 to be stretched which leads to a comfortable (or relatively flat)force-displacement (or extension) profile. In an example, when thepositioning and stabilising structure 14 is stretched apart under loadL, the strain force can be substantially evenly spread across thepositioning and stabilising structure 14. Consequently, the positioningand stabilising structure 14 has a relatively flat force (y-axis) vs.displacement (x-axis) profile, thereby illustrating that the force doesnot change much when the positioning and stabilising structure 14 isextended, particularly when compared to a prior art structure.

5.1.1.4 Adjustable (Connection) Straps

The straps or tabs will be understood to be a structure designed toresist tension. In use, a connection strap 42 is part of the positioningand stabilising structure 14 that is under tension. In certain forms ofthe present technology, the connection strap 42 can be bendable and,e.g., non-rigid. An advantage of this aspect is that the connectionstrap is more comfortable for a user to tension against their head.

Some straps will impart an elastic force as a result of this tension, aswill be described. The straps of the positioning and stabilisingstructure 14 provide a retention force to overcome the effect of thegravitational force on the display unit 12. In this way, a strap mayform part of the positioning and stabilising structure to maintain alight-sealing position of the display unit on the user's head.

In some forms, the positioning and stabilising structure 14 provides aretention force as a safety margin to overcome the potential effect ofdisrupting forces on the display unit in-use, such as from head and bodymovement, or accidental interference with the display unit. The strapmay be configured in-use to direct a force to draw an interfacingsurface of a display unit 12 into sealing contact with a portion of auser's face. In an example the strap may be configured as a tie.

In the form of FIGS. 3 a to 3 c , the connection straps 42 areadjustable and operate to change the distance between the rear supporthoop 16 and the display unit housing 22 of the display unit 12. Each ofthe straps 42, in use, is threaded through an eyelet 44 in the tab 36 ofa respective temporal arm 26. The length of each strap 42 through thetab 36 of a respective temporal connector 18 may be adjusted by pullingmore or less (or adjusting the length, i.e., adjustment) of the strap 42through a respective eyelet 44. The strap 42 may be secured to itselfafter passing through the eyelet 44 in the tab 36, for example, withhook-and-loop fastening means, which allows fine or micro adjustment ofthe straps for comfort and fit (e.g., tightness). Therefore, thedistance between the rear support hoop 16 and the display unit housing22 may be adjusted to fit around different head sizes. Such adjustablestrap arrangement also allows adjustment while the display unit 12 is onthe user's head, e.g., user can pull straps 42 to posteriorly tighten.

In an example, the thickness and/or width of the rear support hoop 16and/or the straps 42 may vary along at least a portion of its length.For example, the rear support hoop 16 may include wider and thinnersections along its length, e.g., wider sections adjacent the straps 42to facilitate connection to the temporal arms 26 and to distribute load.Also the straps 42 may be thinner along it free end to facilitatethreading through the eyelet 44 in the respective temporal arm 26.

In some arrangements, the straps or rigidiser provide a press studarrangement. For example, the rigidiser may include a portion with aplurality of holes and one end of strap 42 may provide a stud (e.g.,over-moulded or sonically welded to the strap) adapted to be press fitinto a selected one of the holes. The stud and holes are configured toprovide a snap-fit arrangement. In other forms, the strap could besecured to itself with an arrangement of holes and studs.

In some arrangements, an adjustment mechanism is provided for adjustingthe distance between the rear support hoop 16 and the display unithousing 22. The rigidisers may comprise an aperture to loop the strap 42therethrough so as to form a looped portion of the strap 42. Therigidisers may be provided with a push-tab that is pre-loaded or biasedwith spring so as to allow for engagement and disengagement of thelooped portion of the strap 42. A gripping portion may be provided on anopposite side of the aperture to the push-tab for the user to stabilizethe positioning and stabilising structure on their face. The grippingportion may prevent disassembly of the looped portion by preventing itfrom pulling back through the aperture.

In certain forms of the present technology, more than one positioningand stabilizing structure 14 is provided with the display unit, each ofthe positioning and stabilising structure being configured to provide aretaining force to correspond to a different size and/or shape range.For example, one form of positioning and stabilizing structure 14 may besuitable for a large sized head, but not a small sized head, and anotherform of positioning and stabilizing structure may be suitable for asmall sized head, but not a large sized head. As such, the display unitmay be provided with a set of different positioning and stabilizingstructures that caters to a different size and/or shape range.Advantageously, the display unit is versatile and may be better fittingand comfortable.

5.1.1.5 Modifications to Rear Support Hoop

5.1.1.5.1 Extended Rigidiser

FIGS. 5 a to 5 c show a support for a head-mounted display system orassembly 210 according to a third example of the present technology. InFIGS. 5 a to 5 c , like reference numerals denote similar or like partsto FIGS. 3 a to 3 c with the addition of 200 to allow distinguishingbetween examples, e.g., display unit 212, positioning and stabilizingstructure 214, rear support hoop 216, temporal connector 218, posterioredge region 220, display unit housing 222, parietal portion 238,occipital portion 240, connection straps 242. In the third example, thesupport for a head-mounted display assembly 210 does not comprise aforehead support, i.e., the display unit 212 is supported by apositioning and stabilizing structure 214 without any forehead supportconnector or forehead support straps.

FIG. 6 shows a support for a head-mounted display system or assembly 310according to a fourth example of the present technology. In the fourthexample as shown in FIG. 6 , like reference numerals denote similar orlike parts to FIGS. 3 a to 3 c with the addition of 300 to allowingdistinguishing between examples, e.g., display unit 312, positioning andstabilizing structure 314, rear support hoop 316, temporal connector318, display unit housing 322, forehead support connector 324, temporalarm 326, rigidiser 332, parietal portion 338, occipital portion 340,forehead support strap 348. In the fourth example, the support for ahead-mounted display system 310 comprises opposing temporal connectors318 each having a temporal arm 326 with an extended rigidiser 358. Eachextended rigidiser 358 may extend from the respective temporal arm 326to the rear support hoop 316 to enhance support of the display unit 312,in use. Each extended rigidiser 358 may extend along a portion of therear support hoop 316 and may extend into one or both of the parietalportion 338 and the occipital portion 340. For example, each extendedrigidiser 358 may comprise a Y-shaped form as shown in FIG. 6 thatextends into both the parietal portion 338 and the occipital portion340. Alternatively, each extended rigidiser 358 may only extend into oneof the parietal portion 338 and the occipital portion 340, e.g., onlyextend along the occipital portion 340 as shown in FIG. 7 a discussedbelow. In the example of FIG. 6 , the parietal and occipital portions ofthe extended arms of the rigidiser 358 are provided along the parietalportion 338 and occipital portion 340 of the rear support hoop 316positioned proximal to the parietal and occipital bones of the user'shead to support respective portions of the rear support hoop 316.

The extended rigidisers 358 increase the length of the temporalconnectors 318 so as to increase the lever-arm moment created about therear support hoop 316. In use, the larger lever-arm extends the momentof inertia further rearward of the user's head when compared the firstand second examples. Advantageously, this can provide more comfort tothe user by decreasing the tension applied to the forehead supportconnector 324 to support the display unit 312.

Additionally, the extended arms of the rigidiser 358 may provide a moreeven distribution of pressure on the user's head under the weight of thedisplay unit 312 and any clamping force applied by tension induced inthe positioning and stabilising structure 314.

The extended arms of the rigidiser 358 can help prevent the rear supporthoop 316 of the positioning and stabilising structure 314 fromtranslating vertically upwards, i.e., riding upwards on the user's head,when tensioning the forehead support connector 324. The extended arms ofthe rigidiser 358 can more effectively secure the occipital portion 340of the rear support hoop 316 beneath the corresponding occipital bone(e.g., along a portion of the occipital bone adjacent a junction wherethe neck muscles attach to the occipital bone) of the user's head.

In other words, the occipital portion 340 of the extended rigidisers 358engages with the occipital bone in order to maintain the occipitalportion 40 and the rear support hoop 16 in position when in-use.Further, the parietal portion 338 of the extended rigidisers 358 couldcapture or pass over the upper part of the user's parietal bone in-use,so as to prevent the positioning and stabilising structure from slippingback down the user's head when in-use.

In an embodiment, each of the parietal portion 338 and the occipitalportion 340 may have different elastic properties so as to provideincreased stability to the positioning and stabilising structure on theuser's face in-use.

In an example, the parietal portion 338 may be constructed from anextensible material to allow for adjustment of the positioning andstabilising structure when in-use. For example, the parietal portion 338may be made from an elastic material. The extensibility provided by theelastic parietal portion may allow for a greater fit range of users.Additionally, the occipital portion 340 may be made from a material withlower extensibility than that of the parietal portion 338. That is, theoccipital portion 340 may be constructed of a material with less stretchfor a given force when compared to the material used for the parietalportion 338. This is to secure the positioning and stabilising structurein position while allowing for some adjustment of the display unitposition on the face of the user.

5.1.1.5.2 Biased Extended Rigidiser

FIGS. 7 a to 7 c show a variation of the fourth example in FIG. 6 . Inthis example, each of the temporal arms 326 comprises a biased extendedrigidiser 360. Each biased extended rigidiser 360 may extend from therespective temporal arm 326 to the occipital portion 340 of the rearsupport hoop 316, i.e., to generally take a J-shaped form, so as toenhance support of the display unit 312, in use.

The biased extended rigidisers 360 extend along a portion of theoccipital bone, e.g., along a portion of the occipital bone adjacent ajunction where the neck muscles attach to the occipital bone, tosecurely anchor the positioning and stabilising structure 314 so as tosupport the display unit 312 above the user's nose and cheek.

As best shown in FIGS. 7 a and 7 c , medial and temporal adjustmentmechanisms 362, 364 may be provided to the temporal arms 326 and thebiased extended rigidisers 360. The medial adjustment mechanism 362 maybe adapted to connect a first biased extended rigidiser 360 to a secondbiased extended rigidiser 360, such that the medial adjustment mechanism362 is located between the first and the second medial adjustmentmechanisms 362. The medial adjustment mechanism 362 may have anadjustable length, thereby controlling the distance between the opposingarms of the rigidisers 360. The medial adjustment mechanism 362 can bemounted about the medial region of the occipital portion between opposedarms of the biased extended rigidisers 360. In an example, the medialadjustment mechanism 362 may be in the form of a strap threaded throughopposing holes 363 in respective posterior ends 368 of the opposing armsof the biased extended rigidisers 360 (see FIG. 7 b ). The distancebetween the opposing arms of the rigidisers 360 can be controlled bypulling more or less of the strap 362 through the holes 363.

The temporal adjustment mechanism 364 can be disposed on each temporalarm 326, along the temporal region of the user's head. The temporaladjustment mechanism 364 can be adjustable and operate to change thedistance between the biased extended rigidisers 360 and the display unithousing 322.

The biased extended rigidisers 360 may be formed from a flat componentand then bent or deformed into a shape suitable for use. For example,the rigidiser 360 may be die cut from sheet material.

5.1.1.6 Adjustable Support Hoop and Offset Configuration

FIGS. 9 a to 10 c show a positioning and stabilising structure 514 for ahead-mounted display system 510 according to a further example of thepresent technology. The head-mounted display system 510 comprises adisplay unit 512, and the positioning and stabilising structure 514 isstructured to maintain the display unit 512 in position on a user'sface.

The positioning and stabilising structure 514 comprises a support hoop516 that is positionable between a frontal bone and a temporal bone ofthe user's head, and opposing connectors 518 disposed on respectivesides of the user's head that interconnect the support hoop 516 torespective posterior edge regions 520 of the display unit housing 522.In the illustrated example, the connectors 518 connect to a portion ofthe support hoop 516 at a location closer to the mid coronal plane, ascompared to the anterior coronal plane of the head, when in use.

Each of the connectors 518 comprises an arm 526, having an anterior end528 mounted to the posterior edge region 520 of the display unit housing522, and a posterior end 530 that forms part of a coupling 564 toconnect the arm 526 to the support hoop 516.

The support hoop 516 can have a three-dimensional contour curve to fitor conform to the shape of a user's head. The support hoop 516 comprisesa frontal portion 538 (also referred to as a front support portion oranterior support portion), arranged to generally locate on either of thefrontal bone or parietal bone, or between the frontal bone and theparietal bone, (e.g., contact an anterior region of the user's head),and an occipital portion 540 (also referred to as a back support portionor posterior support portion) arranged to generally locate on either ofthe occipital bone or parietal bone, or between the occipital bone andthe parietal bone, (e.g., contact an posterior region of the user'shead). The occipital portion 540 is preferably arranged along a portionof the occipital bone (e.g., along a portion of the occipital boneadjacent a junction where the neck muscles attach to the occipitalbone), and the frontal portion 538 is preferably arranged forward of thecoronal plane extending through the otobasion superior. In theillustrated example, the frontal portion 538 and the occipital portion540 extend transverse to the sagittal plane. For example, as shown inFIGS. 10 a to 10 c , the frontal or anterior support portion 538 of thesupport hoop 516 is adapted to extend or lie in a plane 539 and theoccipital or posterior support portion 540 of the support hoop 516 isadapted to extend or lie in a plane 549, and each of the plane 539 andthe plane 549 is adapted to extend transverse to the sagittal plane. Inan example, the plane 549 may be referred to as a first plane, and theplane 539 may be referred to as a second plane, merely to distinguishbetween the planes 549, 539. That is, although the terms “first” and“second” may be used, unless otherwise specified, they are not intendedto indicate any order but simply utilised to distinguish betweendistinct elements, e.g., planes.

The frontal portion 538 and the occipital portion 540 can be rigidcomponents and comprise adjustment mechanisms 562. In particular, therigid components of the frontal portion and the occipital portion may bein any of the form of rigidisers or rigidiser arms as previouslydescribed. In an example, the frontal portion 538 and/or the occipitalportion 540 may comprise a plurality of slots (e.g., on one or bothsides of the frontal portion 538 and/or the occipital portion 540)forming a plurality of hinges along the component, e.g., see slots 543in the occipital portion in FIGS. 9 a and 9 b . The hinges form flexibleportions in the frontal portion 538 and/or the occipital portion 540.The hinges allow the frontal portion 538 and/or the occipital portion540 to articulate and conform to micro variations of the user's head anddistribute load on the head more evenly.

In some forms, the adjustment mechanism 562 can be disposed on eitherone or both the rigidiser arms, and/or at a connection point between thefrontal portion 538 and the occipital portion 540. The adjustmentmechanism 562 can be adjustable and operate to move the frontal portion538 and occipital portion 540 relative to each other. In some forms, theadjustment mechanism 562 can be adjustable and operate to change thedistance (e.g., distance or displacement 545 (e.g., offset) betweenplanes 539, 549 of the frontal portion 538 and the occipital portion 540as shown in FIG. 10 b ) between the frontal portion 538 and theoccipital portion 540. In some forms, the adjustment mechanism 562 canbe adjustable and operate to change the angle between the frontalportion 538 and the occipital portion 540.

In some forms, the frontal portion 538 and occipital portion 540 mayarticulate about the adjustment mechanism 562 of the support hoop 516 toenable the frontal portion 538 to, for example, rotate forward orrearward relative to the coronal plane, and the occipital portion 540 toraise or lower relative to the Frankfort horizontal.

In some forms, the frontal portion 538 and the occipital portion 540 maybe articulated to adjust the distance between the frontal portion 538and the occipital portion 540. The adjustment mechanism 562, in someforms, may comprise a sliding assembly where at least one of the frontalor occipital portions are slidable between an in-line position and atleast one offset position. In the in-line position, the frontal portionlies co-planar with the occipital portion. In the at least one offsetposition, the frontal portion lies in an offset plane (i.e., notco-planar) to the occipital portion. The offset plane may be parallel ormay not be parallel to the plane of the occipital portion.

The adjustment mechanism 562 can further comprise a guide 566 forguiding one of the frontal or occipital portions as they move relativeto each other, between the in-line position and offset position. Theguide 566 may take the form of an elongate slot disposed in either ofthe frontal or occipital portions, and a corresponding guide pindisposed in the other of the frontal or occipital portions. The guide566 enables the corresponding guide pin to move within the elongate slotfor slidable adjustment.

In some forms, the guide 566 provides a cam and slide movement to thefrontal and occipital portions. The guide can take the form of astraight slot, arcuate slot, or other variation to introduce additionalmovement behaviour between the frontal and occipital portions. Further,the guide 566 can be arranged at specific angles relative to theFrankfort horizontal so as to adjust the movement behaviour of thefrontal and occipital portions 538, 540.

The adjustment mechanism 562 enables the frontal and occipital portions538, 540 of the hoop 516 to be configured in any one of, or combinationof, parallel and co-planar to each other, parallel and offset to eachother, arranged at an angle to each other and to the temporal arms. Theadvantages of some of the above combinations are described below.

Referring to FIG. 10 a , an in-line configuration is shown wherein thefrontal portion 538 is arranged in the same plane as the occipitalportion 540, as indicated by a dotted line, i.e., the plane 539 formedby the frontal portion 538 of the hoop 516 is co-planar with the plane549 formed by the occipital portion 540 of the hoop 516. The frontalportion and occipital portion can move relative to each other such as,to move from the in-line position to one or more offset positions, e.g.,in which the planes 539, 549 are not co-planar. Referring to FIGS. 10 band 10 c , an offset configuration is shown, wherein the frontal portion538 has been offset into a different, but parallel, plane to the planeof the occipital portion 540. As shown in FIGS. 10 b and 10 c thefrontal portion 538 can be offset more or less distant from theoccipital portion 540 (e.g., the offset configuration forms a spacing,distance, or displacement 545 between the plane 549 (e.g., a firstplane) and the plane 539 (e.g., a second plane), and the adjustmentmechanism allows the spacing or displacement to be selectivelyadjusted). That is, in FIGS. 10 b and 10 c , the plane 539 formed by thefrontal portion 538 of the hoop 516 is offset or not co-planar with theplane 549 formed by the occipital portion 540 of the hoop 516. In anexample, as shown in FIG. 10 b , the offset planes 539, 540 may besubstantially parallel to one another but spaced apart by a displacement545 so that the plane 539 is out of line from the plane 549 (i.e.,substantially parallel but not co-planar). In an alternative example, asshown in FIG. 10 c , the offset planes may not be parallel, i.e., theplane 539 is arranged at an angle to the plane 549.

In some forms, the frontal and occipital portions are constrained inparallel configurations to each other, i.e., the portions cannot berotated away from a parallel configuration. Examples of thisconfiguration are shown in FIGS. 10 b and 10 c . Corresponding schematicdiagrams of FIGS. 10 b and 10 c are shown in FIGS. 11 a and 11 b ,respectively.

Referring to the schematic representation of FIG. 11 a , the in-lineconfiguration is shown, i.e., no offset between the frontal andoccipital portions 538, 540. In this configuration, a counter-clockwisemoment Mw is created by the weight Fw of the display unit 512 and itshorizontal displacement D2 from the pivot point 541 of the displaysystem which is located at the contacting region of the frontal portion538 of the support hoop 516 (i.e., Mw=Fw×D2). As a result of both thefrontal and occipital portions 538, 540 being in alignment, there is nointernal moment created within the frontal and occipital portions toeither assist or impede the resisting forces provided by the positioningand stabilising structure 514, i.e., no clockwise moment from created bythe frontal and occipital portions. By comparison, and referring to FIG.11 b , when an offset (i.e., displacement D1) is introduced between thefrontal and occipital portions, a corresponding clockwise moment Mt iscreated (i.e., Mt=Ft×D1) in the hoop 516 which assists in resisting themoment Mw induced on the system by the display unit 512.

In the parallel and offset configuration of FIG. 11 b , the separationintroduced between the frontal and occipital portions creates a momentMt that is clockwise, and counteracting to, the counter-clockwise momentMw created on the user's face by the display unit 512. Advantageously,this configuration can balance the acting moments placed on the system510 to thereby improve the in-use comfort when wearing the positioningand stabilising structure.

Further, as disclosed in FIGS. 11 a to 11 c , the location of the pivotpoint 541 dictates the length D2 of the moment arm for the moment Mwinduced by display unit 512. However, as this pivot point 541 movesforward on the forehead (under different adjustments of the support hoop516), the more vertical the surface becomes on which the frontal portion538 would locate. Whilst this may reduce the induced moment, it mayrequire increased clamping pressure on the support hoop to resistsliding of the support hoop 516 down the face. Accordingly, obtaining abalance between these competing criteria allows a more optimal solutionto be achieved that assists both comfort and fit for the user. In anexample, the frontal portion 538 (e.g., providing pivot point 541) isconfigured and arranged to engage the user's head along an upper portionof the frontal bone or along a portion of the parietal bone (e.g.,superior the user's forehead where the head shape is less vertical),which allows a reduction in the force to prevent the positioning andstabilising structure from slipping down the front of the user's headwhen in-use under the weight of the display unit 512. The reduction inforce provides improved comfort while stably supporting the displaysystem. In an example (e.g., see FIG. 13 a ), a forehead support 25(e.g., forehead pad) may be optionally provided to the display unit toprovide a light loading contact point at the user's forehead, e.g., foradded stability. In such example, the forehead support would apply lessforce than the frontal portion 538, e.g., to avoid discomfort (e.g., redmarks on the skin) at the forehead.

In some other forms, as shown in FIG. 11 c , the occipital portion 540can be independently angled relative to the frontal portion 538 inaddition to being offset from the frontal portion 538. Adjusting theangle of the occipital portion 540 to become more vertically orientedenables the occipital portion 540 to more effectively apply a downwardload to the positioning and stabilising structure. Advantageously, thiscan more effectively balance the load of the display unit 512 and inturn, create a more stable positioning and stabilising structure.Further, adjusting the angle of the occipital portion 540 can moreeffectively anchor the occipital portion to the user, i.e., unique shapeof the user's head. In this example, adjustment of the angle of theoccipital portion 540 increases the offset (i.e., displacement D1+)between the frontal and occipital portions, which increases theclockwise moment Mt (i.e., Mt=Ft×D1+) in the hoop 516 to moreeffectively assist in resisting the moment Mw induced on the system bythe display unit 512.

In some other forms, the frontal portion 538 can be independently angled(or moved) relative to the occipital portion 540. Angling the frontalportion can allow the centre of mass of the head-mounted display systemto be optimally positioned on the user's head. Advantageously,controlling the position of the centre of mass can assist with balancingthe moment loads on the head-mounted display system, and thereforeimprove the stability of the positioning and stabilising structure.In-use, this can prevent the head-mounted display system from slidingdown the user's face.

As shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 9 a to 10 c , the occipital portion540 can further comprise a medial adjustment mechanism. In some forms,the adjustment mechanism is in the form of connection strap 542. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 10 a , the strap 542 can be mounted about theposterior, medial region of the occipital portion 540, threaded throughopposing holes 563 in respective posterior ends 568 of the opposing armsof the occipital portion 540 (similar to the strap 362 in FIG. 7 b ).

The strap 542 may be formed from an elastic material to assistconforming to the shape of a user's head. In some forms, the distancebetween the posterior ends 568 can be manually controlled, i.e.,changed, by pulling more or less of the strap through the holes 563.Both methods of elastic and manual control act to maintain a positivepressure on the occipital portion 540, and in turn, the positioning andstabilising structure in-use. Advantageously, the strap 542 maintainstension in the positioning and stabilising structure during dynamicloading scenarios, e.g., a user moving their head and body whenoperating the head-mounted display unit 512.

In some forms, the medial adjustment mechanism does not support themoment load of the display unit 512. In this form, the configuration offrontal and occipital portions act to balance the head-mounted displayon the user's head and so do not require the strap 542 to support themoment load applied by the display unit 512. In this way, the medialadjustment mechanism is decoupled from bearing loads in the positioningand stabilising structure.

As shown in FIGS. 12 a and 12 b , the positive pressure, i.e., pre-load,applied to the positioning and stabilising structure by the strap 542holds the occipital portion 540 of the support hoop 516 close to theoccipital bone of the user's head. The loading applied by the occipitalportion 540 can be small in magnitude, sufficient to counter-act thedynamic loads applied to the head-mounted display when in-use, and notapplying excess pressure into the user's occiput. The tension applied tothe strap 542 can assist preventing the head-mounted display fromsliding down the user's face in-use.

For example, FIG. 12 a shows a first example of pre-load applied by thestrap 542. In this configuration, a counter-clockwise moment Mw iscreated by the weight vector Fw of the display unit 512 and itshorizontal displacement D2 from the pivot point 541 of the displaysystem (i.e., Mw=Fw×D2), and a clockwise moment Mt is created (i.e.,Mt=Ft×D1) in the hoop 516 via the tension force vector Ft and offset(i.e., displacement D1) between the frontal and occipital portions 538,540 to resist the moment Mw. Further, an additional force vector Fb iscreated by bending the occipital portion 540 inwards (via the pre-loadapplied by strap 542), which creates an additional moment Mb (i.e.,Mb=Fb×D3). Thus, the moments Mt and Mb together more effectively assistin resisting the moment Mw induced on the system by the display unit512.

FIG. 12 b shows a second example of pre-load applied by the strap 542.In this configuration, a counter-clockwise moment Mw is created by theweight vector Fw of the display unit 512 and its horizontal displacementD2 from the pivot point 541 of the display system (i.e., Mw=Fw×D2), anda clockwise moment Mt is created (i.e., Mt=Ft×D1) in the hoop 516 viathe tension force vector Ft and offset (i.e., displacement D1) betweenthe frontal and occipital portions 538, 540 to resist the moment Mw.Further, an additional force vector Fb2 is created by bending theoccipital portion 540 outwards (via the pre-load applied by strap 542),which creates an additional moment Mb2 (i.e., Mb2=Fb2×D3). In thisexample, the moment Mt resists the moments Mw and Mb2 induced on thesystem.

In some forms, the medial adjustment mechanism can comprise a rigidlybound elastic portion. The rigidly bound elastic portion can, forexample, be mounted about the posterior, medial region of the occipitalportion 540 and threaded through the opposing holes 563 in each of theposterior ends 568. The length of the rigidly bound elastic portion canbe manually controlled, i.e., can be adjusted, to increase or decreasethe distance between the posterior ends 568 and therefore adjust thesize of the positioning and stabilising structure to fit differentshaped and/or shape heads.

The rigidly bound elastic portion comprises an elastic component and aninelastic component. The two components are connected, whereby theelongation of the elastic component is limited by the length of theinelastic component. In some forms, the elastic component is shorter inlength than the inelastic component, so as to allow the elasticcomponent to elongate until the length of elongation equals the lengthof the inelastic component. For example, when the rigidly bound elasticportion is mounted to the positioning and stabilising structure in-use,a user may be able to apply dynamic loading to the head-mounted display,e.g., the user jumps and moves around, and the elastic component appliessufficient tension to the user's head to prevent the positioning andstabilising structure from sliding off. If the user applies excessdynamic loading to the head-mounted display, the inelastic component canprevent the occipital portion 540 displacing away from the user's head,i.e., loosening the fit, and ensure the head-mounted display does notslide off the user's head.

Referring to FIG. 12 c , the positioning and stabilising structure 514may exhibit a high degree of adjustment in a manner that providesintuitive fit and adjustment. Further the structure provides responsivestability that can cater for dynamic movements of the user. A furtherfeature of the design is that the reactive forces induced by the displayunit 512 is catered for by the frontal and occipital portions 538, 540whilst still allowing for fine independent adjustment of the displayunit. In particular, adjustment of the display unit 512 in an anteriorand posterior direction controls the contacting pressure of theinterfacing structure on the face (e.g., adjustment until forehead padprovided to interfacing structure lightly touches the face), adjustmentin the frontal portion 538 assists in accommodating different head sizesand location of the display unit 512 in a superior-inferior position(e.g., headphone-style adjustment (e.g., self-levelling contact)relative to the ears keeps display unit at correct height), whilstadjustment of the occipital portion 540 assists in fit, location ofcontacting points, and the amount of counter-moment generated to aidcomfort and load distribution in the positioning and stabilisingstructure 514 (e.g., occipital portion 540 provides combination ofproperties: rigidity to control the direction of pull, conformabilityfor comfort and grip, elasticity to automatically hold the system snug,coupled with selectable adjustment).

Referring to FIG. 13 b , the forehead support connector 524 may furthercomprise a forehead support rigidiser 556. In some forms, the foreheadsupport rigidiser can be pre-tensioned to apply a moment load to thepositioning and stabilising structure 514 that urges the display unithousing 522 to rotate inwards, i.e., posteriorly, towards the user'sface in-use (as indicated by the arrow). Advantageously, the displayunit housing 522 is directed into (or towards) the user's face withoutrequiring the positioning and stabilising structure 514 to be tensionedby the strap 542 to pull the display unit into (or towards) the user'sface. The moment load created by the pre-tensioned forehead supportrigidiser 556 acts similarly to a spring loading on the display unit512. The schematic lines 566 and 568 of FIG. 13 b illustrate respectiveloading and non-loading conditions applied to the rigidiser 556. In aloading condition (line 566), the positioning and stabilising structureis in-use on a user's head, wherein the display unit 512 is urgedtowards the user's face, and the rigidiser 556 behaves like aleaf-spring, deflecting away from the user's face. In the un-loaded ornon-loading condition (line 568), the rigidiser 556 is pre-loaded so asto deflect the display unit housing 522 inwards in readiness to receivea user's face.

5.1.1.7 Central Support Structure

Referring to FIGS. 14 a to 14 b , disclosed is a further embodiment of apositioning and stabilising structure 614 for a head-mounted displaysystem 610. The head-mounted display system 610 differs from theembodiment shown in FIGS. 9 a to 13 b in that the head-mounted displaysystem 610 further comprises a central support structure 662, e.g., ahub component, arranged to locate around a user's ear. In theillustrated example, the central support structure 662 may comprise acentral part or hub of the positioning and stabilising structure 614that connects to the frontal portion 638 and/or the occipital portion640.

In an example, the hub component 662 is rotatably connected to thefrontal portion 638 (also referred to as an anterior portion) and/oroccipital portion 640 (also referred to as a posterior portion). Thefrontal portion and occipital portion may articulate about the hub 662to enable the frontal portion 638 to, for example, rotate forward orrearward relative to the coronal plane, and the occipital portion 640 toraise or lower relative to the Frankfort horizontal.

Referring to FIG. 14 b , examples of two possible configurations of thefrontal portion 638 relative to the hub 662 are illustrated. In a firstexample (shown in solid line), the frontal portion 638 is configured ina position proximal to the parietal bone. In a second example (shown indotted line), the frontal portion 638 is configured in a positionproximal to the frontal bone.

In some forms, the frontal portion 638 can be independently angled (ormoved) relative to the occipital portion 640. The frontal portion can beadjusted to move towards the centre of gravity of the display system. Insome forms, the occipital portion can move upwards or downwards tosupport the positioning and stabilising structure against the occipitalbone of the user's head. In some other forms the occipital portion 640can comprise a type of counter-weight (w) to balance the display unit612 (e.g., see FIGS. 14 a and 14 b ).

Referring to FIG. 14 c , the hub 662 can, in-use, direct the forceapplied by the frontal portion 638 and the occipital portion 640 aroundthe user's ear (i.e. force vectors). For example, in some forms, theoccipital portion 640 can be articulated about the hub 662 into aposition offset and parallel to the frontal portion 638. In thisconfiguration, the force, i.e., vectors, applied to the occipitalportion 640 can translate around the perimeter of the hub 662 andthrough the frontal portion 638.

Referring now to FIG. 14 d , in some forms, the hub component 662 isalso rotatably connected to the display unit 612. The display unit mayarticulate about the hub 662 to enable the display unit to rotate i.e.,move relative to the Frankfort horizontal. For example, the display unitis raised or lowered relative to the eyes of the user. That is, thepositioning and stabilising structure may allow for upward, e.g.,superior, pivoting movement (or pivotal movement) of the display unit toallow for movement of the display unit to a nonoperational positionwithout removal of the positioning and stabilising structure (e.g.,flip-up version). In some forms, the pivoting movement (or pivotalmovement) of the display unit involves a pivoting arrangement (orpivotal movement) which includes the positioning and stabilisingstructure. In some forms, this pivoting arrangement may provide arelease mechanism at the forehead support connector (e.g., releasemechanism releasably locks the display unit in operational (i.e.,lowered) and nonoperational (i.e., raised) positions) and/or providelimited hinging regions at the temporal connectors (e.g., limitedhinging regions may limit hinging movement of the temporal connectors,e.g., at the connection to the display unit).

In some forms, the hub component 662 may accommodate some of the weightof the display unit 612, thereby creating a pivot axis for the headmounted display system 610 about the user's ears and in the region ofthe mid coronal plane. This can relieve loading on the frontal portionand assist in angular adjustment of the display unit 612 about the hub662.

Examples of two possible configurations of the display unit 612 areillustrated in FIG. 14 d . In a first example, the display unit 612 isconfigured in front of the user's eyes, i.e., generally parallel withthe Frankfort horizontal. In a second example, the display unit is shownin a raised position above the user's eye, i.e., angled relative to theFrankfort horizontal. Advantageously, moving the display unit 612between these two positions enables the user to move the display unit612 away from their eyes during use (e.g., game play), or before donningand doffing the head-mounted display system 610.

In some forms, an audio device (A), i.e., headphones (e.g., noisecancelling), can be located on the hub 662 (see FIG. 14 b ). The audiodevice A can be configured to releasably engage with the hub 662, e.g.,about a snap-lock type feature. In some forms, an audio device A can beplaced on the hub 662 to encapsulate a user's ear, in-use.

5.1.1.8 Materials and Composites

In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilisingstructure 14 comprises a strap constructed from a laminate of aresilient (e.g., elastomeric and/or textile) skin-contacting layer, afoam inner layer and a textile outer layer. In other words, thepositioning and stabilising structure 14 comprises at least one strap14. In one form, the foam is porous to allow moisture, (e.g., sweat), topass through the strap. In one form, the textile outer layer comprisesloop material to engage with a hook material portion i.e., tab portion54. In some forms of the technology, the skin contacting layer is formedfrom a material that helps wick moisture away from the user's face. Thismay help to maintain comfort if the user sweats while wearing the userinterface.

In one form of the present technology, a positioning and stabilisingstructure 14 is provided that is configured to have a low profile, orcross-sectional thickness, to reduce the perceived or actual bulk of theapparatus (or display system). In one example, the positioning andstabilising structure 14 comprises at least one strap 14 having agenerally rectangular cross-section. In another example the positioningand stabilising structure comprises at least one strap having a profilewith one or more rounded edges to provide greater comfort and to reducethe risk of straps marking or irritating the user.

In some forms, the straps of the positioning and stabilising structure14 may at least partially be made of or comprise at least one syntheticpolymer such as nylon and/or polyurethane (e.g., lycra). Further, thestraps may comprise different layers, e.g., of different materials.Different layers may be welded one to another. In an example, the strapsmay comprise different layers of different materials, e.g., an outerlayer of an aesthetically pleasing material and/or an inner layer facingthe user's head made of a soft and/or pleasing material. For example,the straps forming the parietal portion of the hoop may be made of aninexpensive and/or comfortable material. In a further example, withreference to FIGS. 28 and 29 , the straps (such as straps 14) cancomprise an internal layer 17 having a thickness of 2.5-4.0 millimetre(mm) of a low density polyurethane foam with an outer layer 15configured to surround the internal layer 17. The outer layer 15 may beformed from a laminated layer made up of nylon, polyester, anothersimilar material that can be manufactured to provide a soft exteriorsurface, or a mixture thereof. The laminated layer may comprise one ormore layers. In some forms, the outer layer 15 may be formed from amixture of nylon and polyester. Consequently, the selection ofmaterial(s) for the straps may improve the comfort of the straps.

In some forms, an outer layer 15 of the straps of the positioning andstabilising structure 14 can comprise a resilient component made of anelasticated nylon knit that is formed so as to slide freely (orlongitudinally) over an internal layer 17 that acts as a rigidiser(e.g., FIG. 28 ). The rigidiser (i.e., internal layer 17) can act as aframe (or support) for the strap 14, and can be formed from a materialsuch as TPE that is advantageously both lightweight and offerscontrolled flexibility.

In an example, a strap may be a single layer component such as anelastomer/fabric. The strap may alternatively be a composite or multiplelayer component such as a textile and foam composite, or outer textilelayers and inner spacer fabrics. The straps may be made of a spandex orelastane/foam composite or may be formed of other suitable materials(such as a 3D spacer fabric or a double-knit interlock textile).

Different materials for different layers of a strap portion and/ordifferent straps may be selected depending on the specificproperties/functions/requirements. In an example, the straps of thepositioning and stabilising structure may be BPA-free and Gelamid® whichmay be applied at least for portions of the strap.

In some forms, it may be desirable for at least one of the materialsused for the strap(s) of the positioning and stabilising structure to bebreathable. In a further example, the straps may be formed from abreathable neoprene substitute. For example, the neoprene substitute canhave inner and outer resilient layers comprising porous, four-waystretchable textile. The inner layer being designed to wick moistureaway from the skin surface and the outer textile layer being a looptextile for receiving Velcro® hooks.

The textile on the user contacting side may preferably have the sameweave as the textile on the non-user contacting side, such that thestretch characteristics of the straps are approximately equal on bothsides. Also, it is preferred that the textile on the user contactingside has the same heat shrinkage characteristics as the non-usercontacting side. This is to prevent the positioning and stabilisingstructure from deforming unevenly when processed or exposed to heat, orotherwise thermoformed.

The textile on the user contacting side may be a different textile tothe non-user contacting side, such that the textile on the usercontacting side is more comfortable than the non-user contacting side.

The straps may be cut from a sheet of material (e.g., flame laminated),or cut from a roll of narrow resilient (e.g., elastomeric and/ortextile) strap and then thermoformed and ultrasonically welded to createrounded edges before being ultrasonically welded together. The strapsmay have a geometry that allows them to be nested on the sheet toincrease yield, e.g., the geometry may be substantially linear.

In some forms, the positioning and stabilising structure can comprisestraps configured as separate elements. As such, the positioning andstabilising structure can be made up of an assembly of straps i.e. strapassembly. For example, the strap 48 can be connected, e.g., by a weldedjoint, to the parietal portion 38. The separate elements may be joinedtogether during the manufacturing process. Alternatively, straps of thepositioning and stabilising structure may be configured as or made ofone piece. In another example, the strap 48 and the parietal portion 38may be cut out of one material sheet.

Designing the strap pieces separately may allow flexibility for thestrap pieces to be made relatively smaller which contributes to anincreased yield and simpler process of manufacturing. In addition, thedesign of the strap pieces may allow for less material wastage when cutfrom a sheet, e.g., due to the substantially rectangular shape of theparietal portion straps. Moreover, manufacturing the strap assembly inseparate pieces may allow for the substitution of materials that areless expensive, more comfortable and/or have an aesthetically pleasingcolour.

The width of the straps of the positioning and stabilising structure 14,and thus the footprint, may be additionally reduced by using differentmaterials, different strap thicknesses and/or different compositions.Different materials and/or cheaper materials may be used for some partsor portions of the structure 14, e.g., with the same support and/orcomfort. In an example, the parietal portion of the hoop may have anincreased thickness compared to the occipital portion of the hoop. Thismay increase comfort. Additionally, having a smaller overall size of theoccipital portion of the hoop can allow a user to bend their headbackwards towards their spine (e.g., in a posterior direction) with anadditional freedom of movement.

The joints between adjacent strap portions may be constructed as athinned region or thinned connection portions to encourage bending. Thethinned region may function as a flex point or hinge (e.g., a livinghinge) to provide increased flexibility where desired. The flex point orhinge may be reinforced using hot-melt seam tape, or thinner textilelayer with an adhesive backing, or other reinforcement methods.

Such a hinge feature of the connection may permit the straps to betteraccommodate the shape of a user's head. A combination of linear andnonlinear joints may be utilized to achieve a desired level offlexibility and direction of flexion, as well as a desired level ofthree-dimensional shaping to a component made up of a series of partswhich were originally a flat material (such as textile or paper, forexample). Such shaping may include darts, tucks, gathers, or a curvedseam.

In some examples, materials having differing degrees of flexibility maybe combined in an alternating manner to form a controlled flex region.Components may be stacked one on top of the other and ultrasonicallywelded together in a manner that leaves no space therebetween. The userinterfacing component may be constructed of a soft material, e.g., asoft textile.

In an example, the forehead support connector 24 that extends across thefrontal bone of the user to connect to the support hoop 16 may beconnected together by welding, e.g., by ultrasonic welding. In anexample, portions of the forehead support connector 24 and the hoop 16may overlap. These members may be placed in an ultrasonic welding tool.

An advantage of the ultrasonic welding process is that a flush or buttjoint does not increase the thickness of the components at the joint andis visually appealing, unlike stitching where components must beoverlapped, and which results in an uneven thickness. Even if the edgesof the two or more components are butted together and stitched withoutany or substantial overlapping to form stitches, the stitches willcreate a rougher, stiffened and raised joint. Further, the flush or buttjoint formed by ultrasonic welding may result in a smooth connectionthat may reduce skin irritation, chaffing or facial marking, even whenreinforced with seam reinforcement tape. An advantage of using anoverlapped ultrasonic weld variation is that multiple components may bejoined in a single machine in one operation. Furthermore, the ultrasonicwelding process may be designed such that the joint is embodied as athinned region or thinned portion between the components.

In an embodiment, the straps may be thermoformed and then edges of thestrap may be ultrasonically cut. The thermoformed and ultrasonically cutstrap provides rounded edges which provides substantially reduced facialmarking in-use. In addition, the thermoformed and ultrasonically cutedges are softer and less abrasive, which provides a more comfortablefeel on the user's face in-use, e.g., more comfortable feel around theuser's ears.

In a further embodiment, at least a portion of the positioning andstabilising structure may be constructed from a spacer fabric, where theedges of the spacer fabric may be ultrasonically welded. This may causethe edges of the spacer fabric to be rounded, thereby reducing facialmarking and increasing comfort for the user.

In an embodiment, one or more aspects of the positioning and stabilisingstructure may be structured to enhance comfort. For example, therigidiser may be relatively thin. In another example, the strap mayinclude a nylon rigidiser enclosed in foam. In such embodiment, thedensity of the foam may be increased to improve comfort and reducechances of feeling the nylon rigidiser. Alternatively, the thickness ofthe foam may be utilized to alter the softness or roundness of the edgeof the strap. For example, thicker layers of foam are more likely toproduce rounder corners than thinner layers of foam. In a furtherembodiment, the foam may begin at one thickness, and be compressed toanother thickness during processing.

In an embodiment, foam on the user contacting side may be less dense orhave a lower hardness than foam on non-user contacting side. It is alsopossible to have more than one layer of foam and more than one rigidisercomponent.

In some alternative embodiments, the rigidiser may include a semi-rigidmoulded component that is over-moulded with a soft polymeric material,e.g., TPE, TPU. The polymeric material provides a softer material forcontacting the user's face in use. In some forms, the moulded componentmay be provided with soft touch or flock coatings.

In certain forms of the present technology, the positioning andstabilising structure can be formed to have a biocompatible material asan outer surface, e.g., silicone rubber, textile laminate, etc. Thebiocompatible material can be devoid of toxicity and reduce any risk ofskin reaction.

In certain forms of the present technology, the positioning andstabilising structure can be formed from durable materials that canwithstand daily use, including repetitive disassembly and cleaning.

In some forms, a reduction in the overall weight of the head mounteddisplay can be proportional to a reduction in one or more of: (a) thenumber of components; (b) the rigidity of the positioning andstabilising structure; (c) the rigidity of the interfacing structure;and (d) the ability to adjust the features of the head mounted displaysuch as the positioning and stabilising structure or interfacingstructure.

For example, foam (such as polyurethane foam, or viscoelastic foam) orfoam-like components can be lighter and more compliant than siliconecomponents. In a further example, spacer fabrics comprising lightweightmaterials such as textiles can be used to bridge across sections of thepositioning and stabilising structure to assist with weight reduction.However, where some stiffness is required, it may be appropriate toutilise silicone or TPE (e.g., in a frame rigidiser).

5.1.1.9 Forehead Support Arrangements

Referring to FIG. 3 a , the forehead support connector 24 of thepositioning and stabilising structure 14 can be connected to thesuperior edge region 21 of the display unit housing 22. In some forms,the connector 24 can be connected to the display unit housing 22, e.g.,about a forehead support 25 (e.g., see FIG. 13 a ), which can beadjusted to allow the positioning and stabilising structure toaccommodate the configuration of a user's face.

5.1.1.9.1 Forehead Support

Referring now to FIG. 13 a , the forehead support 25 can be connected tothe superior edge region 21 of the display unit housing 22 and in someforms can be mechanically coupled to the forehead support connector 24.The support 25 can comprise a forehead contacting portion 27 which isadapted to be in contact with the user's forehead to support andstabilize the load of the display unit 12.

The forehead support 25 can be configured to be essentially straight orit can be curved. In the case where the connector (i.e., foreheadsupport 25) is curved, the curvature generally follows the curvature ofthe user's forehead. While this is the most likely structure, it iswithin the scope of the present invention to use a forehead support 25that has the opposite curvature, or any combination thereof. Theforehead support 25 can be made from a thermoplastic material.

The forehead support 25 can be presented at an angle which is generallyparallel to the user's forehead to provide improved comfort to the user.Advantageously, this can reduce the likelihood of pressure sores whichmay result from an uneven presentation. In-use, some user anatomicalstructures may require the forehead support 25 to be positioned higherup the forehead. In this case, the angle of presentation of the support25 can be adjusted to suit the user.

The forehead support 25 can be provided with one or more openings. Theseopenings can be adapted to serve numerous purposes including points ofconnection to the housing, points of connection to any another supportsurface, points of connection for straps to secure the head-mounteddisplay to the user (e.g., forehead support strap 48) and apertures fora forehead contacting portion, e.g., a forehead contacting pad (orforehead pad).

In some forms of the forehead support 25, the apertures are designed toreceive the forehead pad. The apertures can be disposed about theforehead support 25 in a manner to allow a user to adjust the positionof the forehead pad.

The apertures are also designed to allow a user to attach the foreheadpad securely to the forehead support 25. In some forms, the aperturesare designed to allow a user to attach the forehead pad securely andreversibly to the forehead support 25. In some forms, the forehead padis adapted to releasably engage with the forehead support 25.

In one form, the forehead pad is generally plate- or disc-shaped. Inother forms, the pad may have a concave surface to correspond to aconvex portion of the forehead of a user in-use. Possible shapes of thebase portion of a forehead pad include rectangular and oval shapes.

In one form, the forehead pad may comprise one or more portions. In anembodiment, two base portions of a forehead pad are provided in order tobe situated above left and right eyebrows of the user.

5.1.1.9.2 Forehead Contacting Portion

The forehead contacting portion 27 comprises a forehead contactingsurface 29 which, in an in-use position, is seated on a forehead area ofa user. In some forms, the forehead contacting portion 27 can be made ofan elastomer material.

The contacting surface 29 can optionally include a raised surfacepattern. The pattern reduces the possibility of a suction effect of thesurface thereby reducing the drawing of blood in the region and makingthe contacting portion more comfortable. The raised pattern has theadded benefit of reducing sweating. In another embodiment, the surfacecan be given a sand-blasted finish to improve ventilation and reduce thelikelihood of sweating.

In some forms, the contacting surface 29 can have cut away portions toimprove the flexibility of the contacting portion. Another advantage ofthe cut away portions is that the contacting portion 27, in-use, canbetter accommodate rolling and twisting of the display unit on a user'sface. A further advantage of the cut away portions in the contactingportion is that they can reduce the effect of a single point of pressureon the forehead, e.g., reduce discomfort.

In some forms, the contacting portion includes a jacket, which defines ahollow chamber that is filled with a viscous medium in such a way that awall of the jacket that forms the contacting surface 29 is subjected, onits side facing away from the forehead area of the user, essentially tothe pressure of the viscous medium. The hollow chamber filled withviscous material may be used as a contacting portion between the userand other components of the positioning and stabilising structure, e.g.,portions of the support hoop, and also may be used in the interfacingportion.

In some forms, the forehead contacting portion can comprise materialsthat include rubber and flexible plastics. In some embodiments, thecontacting portion is constructed from cured Liquid Silicone Rubber oralternatively, a silicone with a suitable hardness. These examples aremerely intended to be illustrative and are not limiting in any manner.

5.1.1.9.3 Forehead Support Connector Strap

As shown in FIGS. 3 a to 3 c , the forehead support connector 24 of thepositioning and stabilising structure 14 comprises a forehead supportstrap 48 arranged to run generally along or parallel to the sagittalplane of the user's head. The strap 48 is adapted to connect between thesuperior edge region 21 of the display unit housing 22 and the parietalportion 38 of the rear support hoop 16. In an example, the strap 48 canbe non-adjustably connected, e.g., by a welded joint, to the parietalportion 38, and the strap 48 can be adjustably connected to the displayunit housing 22 by an adjustment mechanism 50.

The strap 48 is adjustable to enable dimensional control of the foreheadsupport connector 24. As shown in FIGS. 3 a and 3 c , an end portion ortab portion 54 of the strap 48, in-use, is threaded through a foreheadsupport hole 52 in the superior edge region 21 of the display unit 12.The strap 48 may be secured to itself after passing through the hole 52in the display unit 12, for example, with hook-and-loop fastening means,which allows fine or micro adjustment of the straps for comfort and fit(e.g., tightness). In an example, the forehead support strap 48 maycomprise a similar material to rear support hoop 16 and/or theconnection straps 42, e.g., textile-foam composite (e.g., breathablematerial, e.g., multi-layered construction including at an outer textilelayer and an inner foam layer).

The forehead support connector 24 supports the weight of the displayunit 12. The length of the strap 48 between the superior edge region 21of the display unit 12 and the parietal portion 38 of the hoop 16 may beadjusted by pulling more or less of the strap 48 through the hole 52.Therefore, the strap is able to be adjusted to raise or lower theposition of the display unit 12 relative to the user's nose, e.g.,adjust to angle or lift the display unit 12 relative to the user's face.Advantageously, this adjustment can move the display unit housing 22away from the user's nose to relieve pressure felt on the face, nose,and/or cheeks. The forehead support connector 24 secures the displayunit 12 in position so that the display unit does not slide downwards orlaterally on the user's head.

In an example, the thickness and/or width of the forehead support strap48 may vary along at least a portion of its length, e.g., foreheadsupport strap 48 may include wider and thinner sections along its lengthto facilitate connection and to distribute load.

In an example, the adjustment mechanism 50 is positioned, in use, out ofcontact with a user's frontal bone region.

In an alternative example, the positioning and stabilising structure 14does not include a forehead support connector 24/forehead support strap48, e.g., see example of FIGS. 5 a to 5 c.

FIGS. 4 a to 4 c show a support for a head-mounted display system 110according to a second example of the present technology. In FIGS. 4 a to4 c , like reference numerals denote similar or like parts to FIGS. 3 ato 3 c with the addition of 100 to allow distinguishing betweenexamples, e.g., display unit 112, positioning and stabilizing structure114, rear support hoop 116, temporal connector 118, posterior edgeregion 120, display unit housing 122, forehead support connector 124,temporal arm 126, parietal portion 138, occipital portion 140,connection straps 142, forehead support strap 148, adjustment mechanism150, forehead support hole 152, end portion 154. Referring to FIG. 4 c ,the forehead support connector 124 may further comprise a foreheadsupport rigidiser 156. The forehead support rigidiser 156 can providefurther stabilisation and support for the display unit 112 above theuser's nose and cheeks, i.e., relieve pressure on the user's nose andcheeks. The rigidiser 156 can be connected to the superior edge region121 and form part at least part of the forehead support hole 152 toreceive an end portion or tab portion 154 of the strap 148 fordimensional adjustment of the positioning and stabilising structure 114.As illustrated the forehead support strap 148 is arranged beneath theforehead support rigidiser 156 for comfort and load distribution.

In some forms, the adjustment mechanism 150 may further comprise anangle adjustment mechanism for easy lifting of the visor from an in-useposition to a stowed position, i.e., not in-use.

In an example, the system may be structured and arranged to redistributeone or more components from the display unit to the positioning andstabilizing structure, e.g., to redistribute weight from the displayunit to the positioning and stabilizing structure. For example, theforehead support rigidiser 156 and/or forehead support strap 148 may beused to at least partially support one or more non-location essentialelectrical components, e.g., batteries, hard drive storage, to shiftweight from the front of the user's head to a more central location,i.e., to counterbalance weight of the display unit. In alternativeexamples, one or more components from the display unit may be at leastpartially supported by the rear support hoop 116 and/or temporalconnectors 118 to redistribute weight.

5.1.2 Interfacing Structure

A user interface may be partly characterised according to the designintent of where the interfacing structure is to engage with the facein-use. Some interfacing structures may be limited to engaging withregions of the user's face that protrude beyond the arc of curvature ofthe face engaging surface of the interfacing structure. These regionsmay typically include the user's forehead and cheek bones. This mayresult in user discomfort at localised stress points. Other facialregions may not be engaged at all by the interfacing structure or mayonly be engaged in a negligible manner that may thus be insufficient toincrease the translation distance of the clamping pressure. Theseregions may typically include the sides of the user's face, or theregion adjacent and surrounding the user's nose. To the extent to whichthere is a mismatch between the shape of the user's face and theinterfacing structure, one or both may be adaptable in order for anappropriate contact or other relationship to form.

In some embodiments of the present technology, the interfacing structurecan comprise a single seal forming element that overlays a portion ofthe nasal ridge region, the frontal bone region and each of the left andright infraorbital margin regions of the face, in-use. In someembodiments, the interfacing structure may be designed for massmanufacture. For example, the interfacing structure can be designed tocomfortably fit a wide range of different face shapes and sizes.

Referring to FIG. 8 , in one form of the present technology, thehead-mounted display system 410 further comprises an interfacingstructure 411 that provides a facial interface or face engaging portion413 that is arranged to engage with, and be in opposing relation to, theuser's face in use. The interfacing structure 411 can, in some forms,provide a cushioning function so as to improve the overall comfort for auser. The facial interface 413 can, in some forms, be arranged to atleast partially block light from entering the display unit housing 422in-use.

The interfacing structure 411 extends about a display contained by thedisplay unit housing 422. The interfacing structure 411 may extend aboutthe display and define a viewing opening to the display. In an example,the facial interface 413 extends around the user's eyes, and may engage(e.g., light sealing) with the user's face, e.g., along the user's nose,cheeks and/or forehead.

The positioning and stabilising structure 414 can be attached to thedisplay unit housing 422 whereby the interfacing structure 411 of thepresent technology is held in the operable position on a user's face. Insome alternative forms, the positioning and stabilising structure 414can be attached to a portion of the interfacing structure 411 wherebythe interfacing structure 411 of the present technology is held in theoperable position on a user's face.

FIG. 15 a illustrates a split front view of a further embodiment of aninterfacing structure 611 in use, where the interfacing structure 611 isotherwise generally formed to be symmetrical on either side of centralaxis A-A. The left-hand side of central axis A-A illustrates an exampleof an interfacing structure 611 as it may be positioned in use to engagewith the user's face generally around a periphery of a user's eyes. Theright-hand side of central axis A-A illustrates an example of the user'sface beneath the interfacing structure 611, showing the facial regionsthat may be in contact with the interfacing structure 611 in use. Inbroad terms, the interfacing structure 611 may be formed on regions ofthe epicranius 601, the user's sphenoid 603, across the outer cheekregion 605 between the sphenoid 603 to the left or right zygomatic arch607, over the zygomatic arch 607, across the inner cheek region 609 fromthe zygomatic arches 607 towards the alar crests 619, and on the user'snasal ridge 617 inferior to the sellion to enclose a portion of theuser's face therebetween.

The interfacing structure 611 provides a substantially continuous facialinterface or face engaging surface 613 around the periphery of theuser's eyes, i.e., the facial interface or face engaging surface 613 isadapted to contact the user's face on regions of the epicranius, thesphenoid, across the outer cheek region between the sphenoid to the leftor right zygomatic arch, over the zygomatic arch, across the inner cheekregion from the zygomatic arches towards the alar crests, and on thenasal ridge inferior to the sellion to enclose the user's eyestherebetween. That is, the interfacing structure 611 provides continuouscontact (e.g., at least light sealing) around the entirety of the user'seye to prevent or at least reduce the ingress of undesirable light. Inthis regard, the substantially continuous facial interface or faceengaging surface 613 may be contoured and/or angled along its peripheryto conform or closely follow the contours/facial profile of thepatient's face.

In use, the interfacing structure 611 may be compressed against theuser's face (e.g., via the positioning and stabilising structure), andthe interfacing structure 611 is configured and arranged such that thecompression force or load applied to the user's face is distributed orspread around a periphery thereof so that the load is not concentratedon a minimal number of contact points. Moreover, the interfacingstructure 611 comprises varying compliance around the periphery thereofconfigured to allow selective distribution of the force onto the user'sface. For example, the interfacing structure may include a firstcompliance at a first region and a second compliance at a second region,and the first region and the second region are configured around theperiphery of the interfacing structure to allow selective distributionof the force onto the user's face. This arrangement allows higher levelsof pressure to be spread across regions of the user's face that are moreadept at absorbing the pressure, e.g., epicranius and the sphenoid.

In some forms of the present technology, a system is provided where theinterfacing structure is integrally formed with the display unithousing. In some forms of the present technology, such as theembodiments shown in FIGS. 15 b, 16 a to 16 c , 18, 19, and 20 a to 20d, a system is provided where the interfacing structure is formed as aseparate removable component that is configured to integrate with, andbe retained by, the display unit housing so as to engage with, and be inopposing relation to, the user's face in use. That is, the display unithousing may provide a common frame structured and arranged to removablyretain each of a number of interfacing structures (each corresponding toa different size and/or shape range and/or material type) to allowvariants of interfacing structures to be exchanged based on fit or userpreference.

Referring to FIG. 8 , when the interfacing structure 411 is formed as aremovable component, a number of interfacing structure 411 embodimentscan be formed, with each embodiment being configured to correspond to adifferent size and/or shape range. For example, the head-mounted displaysystem 410 may comprise one form of an interfacing structure 411suitable for a large sized head. This may not be suitable for users withsmaller sized heads and may thus result in reduced comfort andperformance. An interfacing structure 411 suitable for a small sizedhead may not be suitable for a large sized head and may likewise resultin reduced comfort and performance for the user. Thus, a removableinterfacing structure 411 may be advantageous in that it enables a userto customise the head-mounted display system 410 and to select theinterfacing structure 411 that best fits their individual facialanthropomorphic features. In some further embodiments, a user can havetheir facial anthropomorphic features measured in order to custom designand form a suitable interfacing structure 411. A removable interfacingstructure 411 also allows for applications, such as medical use, wherethe structure 411 may be disposable or may allow separate cleaning tocomply with surgical procedures.

Referring to FIG. 15 b , when the interfacing structure 611 is formed asa removable component, it can be formed to comprise a chassis 621 ofrigid, or semi-rigid, material that is configured to facilitateengagement with the display unit housing 622. For example, in someembodiments, the chassis 621 can be formed of a plastic material. Thechassis 621 can comprise one or more engagement elements 623 around theperiphery thereof that are configured to detachably mate with acorresponding element configured on the display unit housing 622.Suitable engagement elements may include one or more of a clip,fastener, magnet, or Velcro provided that the number and location of theengagement elements utilised in any given embodiments are capable ofensuring that the chassis 621 and display unit housing 622 arerelatively fixed to one another without allowing significant slippage tooccur therebetween. For example, as in FIGS. 15 a and 15 b , theengagement elements 623 can be two clips that are spaced laterally fromone another so as to locate on symmetrically opposing sides of thecentral axis A-A. Similar engagement elements 723 are shown in FIGS. 16a to 16 c . In some further embodiments, a series of indents, can beformed at the in-use lower portion of the chassis in addition to theclips that are formed at the in-use upper portion of the chassis. As oneskilled in the art would appreciate, other combinations of engagementelements are also considered within the functional scope of the presenttechnology. In some further embodiments, the display unit housing cancomprise a groove that engages with the outer peripheral rim of thechassis so as to provide additional vertical support to the engagementelements and further reduce relative movement between the display unithousing and interfacing structure.

The chassis 621 acts as a base for the rest of the interfacing structure611. In addition, the chassis 621 can provide some rigidity andnecessary structure to the interface support structure 615 of theinterfacing structure 611, and therethrough also to the facial interfaceor face engaging surfaces 613. The chassis 621 can be adhesively engagedto the support structure 615, or in some embodiments mechanically bondedto the support structure 615, with the method used to join the chassis621 to the support structure 615 being dependent on the composition ofthe materials and their specific structures. The chassis 621 can begenerally curved laterally across the user's face. In some embodiments,the curvature can generally correspond to a curvature of the user'sface. In some embodiments, such as in FIG. 16 b , the curvature of thechassis 721 can be relatively small, with the support structure 715being formed to extend therefrom to bridge the distance to the user'sface and thus having varying depths laterally across the user's face. Inother words, the support structure 715 can extend to a greater depth inthe regions adjacent the sides of the user's face, in comparison to thesmaller depth formed in the region proximal the central axis A-A of theuser's face. In some embodiments, the chassis 621,721,821 mayadvantageously remain the same size and shape, whilst the remainder ofthe interfacing structure 611,711,811 can be varied so as to be providemultiple modular embodiments, or custom designed modular embodimentsthat suit a user's individual facial anthropomorphic features.

In some embodiments, the chassis, support structure and face engagingsurfaces of the interfacing structure can be integrally formed as asingle component comprising varying thicknesses and finishes thereacrossso as to provide the desired level of rigidity at the chassis or desiredlevel of cushioning effect at the face engaging surfaces. For example,in some such embodiments, the interfacing structure can be formed from asingular silicone body. In alternative embodiments, the interfacingstructure can be integrally formed as a single component from a foam oran elastomeric material.

In some embodiments, the chassis 721 can be formed as a separatecomponent from the rest of the interfacing structure 711 which ismanufactured as a singular integrally formed body (e.g., see FIGS. 16 ato 16 c ). For example, in some embodiments, one or more regions of thefacial interface or face engaging surface 713′ can be formed togetheraround the periphery of the interfacing structure 711′ as an inwardlyprojecting flange-like rim (e.g., membrane or flap) that stems from thesupport structure 715′ (e.g., see FIG. 17 a ). Alternatively, in someembodiments, the face engaging surface 713″ can be supported by aspring-like supporting flange 725″ that stems from the support structure715″ and is substantially concealed beneath the face engaging surface713″ (e.g., see FIG. 17 b ). For example, the supporting flange 725″ andsupport structure 715″ can both be formed from silicone, with thematerial thickness of the supporting flange 725″ being thinner than thatof the support structure 715″ so as to provide a more compliant, yetresilient, spring-like support to the portion of the interfacingstructure 711″ that engages the user's face. In some embodiments, theface engaging surface 713″ can be loosely overlaid over the supportingflange 725″ such that each can respond independently to the compressionpressure applied when interacting with a user's face in use. In someembodiments, the overlaid face engaging surface 713″ can be bonded withthe supporting flange 725″ over which it is overlaid, whereby theyeffectively form a singular body that responds in unison to thecompression pressure applied when interacting with a user's face in use.

The face engaging surface 713 can comprise one or more regions ofsilicone, or one or more layers of a textile material or foam. The oneor more regions of the face engaging surface 713 can be formed to havevarying thicknesses and/or varying surface finishes, whereby theresultant face engaging surface 713 can have a variable compliancetherealong when compressed against a user's face in use.

Some or all of the face engaging surface 713 may be regions of(relatively) reduced friction. Where silicone is used, this may beachieved by providing a so-called frosted surface. With a region ofreduced friction, the sealing surface may adhere to the user's face lessthan without the region of reduced friction. For example, the region ofreduced friction may be provided to allow the side(s) of the user's noseto slide freely along the face engaging surface 713. Likewise, a textileor foam materials having (relatively) reduced friction outer surfacefinishes can be used to form part or all of the face engaging surface713.

Some or all of the face engaging surface 713 may be regions of(relatively) high friction. Where silicone is used, this may be achievedby providing a so-called polished surface. With a region of highfriction, the sealing surface may adhere to the user's face better thanwithout the region of reduced friction, thus reducing the slippage ofthe display unit housing 722. Likewise, a textile or foam materialshaving (relatively) high friction outer surface finishes can be used toform part or all of the face engaging surface 713.

In some embodiments, one or more distinct regions of the face engagingsurface 713 can be formed to have different finishes or different levelsof friction so as to optimise the grip and retention performance of theface engaging surface 713 whilst also improving user comfort (e.g., oneor more regions with frosted surface and one or more regions of polishedsurface). In some embodiments, a combination of two or more materialscan be used to form the overall face engaging surface 713, wheredifferent materials can be used in different regions. This may improveretention of the display unit housing 722 whilst also improving usercomfort.

In some embodiments, the heat wicking performance of the face engagingsurface can be improved by using a silicone material whereby the usercomfort may be improved.

Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19 , the support structure 715 can be formedto comprise one or more distinct regions 715′, 715″ having varyingthicknesses and/or being further supported by the addition of stiffeningribs 715′″. In some regions, the support structure can be thinner 715′,or generally provide less resistance to compression, for example in theregions adjacent the user's zygomatic arch, cheek bones, and nose. Insome other regions the support structure can be thicker 715″, or cangenerally be structured to provide more resistance to compression, forexample in the regions adjacent the user's forehead or sphenoid. In someembodiments, the thickness of the support structure 715 can be variedincrementally thereacross, rather than as distinct regions having asingular thickness. In some embodiments, stiffening ribs 715′″ can beformed as wide regions of thicker material, whilst in other embodiments,stiffening ribs 715′″ can be formed as a tie-like support from narrowand/or less compliant material.

Thinner regions of the support structure 715 can provide a morecompliant, yet resilient, cushion support to the face engaging surface713 above. For example, in some embodiments, thinner regions may beformed from silicone material have a thickness of 0.3-0.5 mm. Bycontrast, thicker regions of the support structure 715 can provide aless compliant, more resistant, and relatively rigid structural supportto the face engaging surface 713 above. For example, in someembodiments, thicker regions may be formed from silicone material have athickness of 1.5-2 mm. By forming a support structure 715 from aplurality of distinct thicker and thinner regions, or a blend ofincrementally varying thicknesses, the load resistance of the supportstructure 715 may be optimised. The overall compliance of theinterfacing structure 711 at any given point around the periphery of theuser's face in use, may thus be a result of the properties of thechassis 721, support structure 715 and face engaging surface 713.

In some embodiments, it may be advantageous for the interfacingstructure 711 to balance compliance against resilience and rigidity, soas to spread the resistance force applied by the interfacing structure711 when compressed against a user's face in use. In addition, it may beadvantageous to provide an interfacing structure 711 where thetranslation distance of the compression pressure, applied wheninteracting with a user's face in use, is spread across regions of theusers face that are more adept at absorbing the pressure, rather thanallowing the load to be focused locally on a minimal number of contactpoints. Thus, the overall compliance of the disclosed interfacingstructure 711, can be formed to allow for the face engaging surface 713to adaptably mould to the user's face. This may advantageously reduceregions of the face engaging surface 713 that are spaced from the user'sface, or that do not sufficiently interact with the user's face so as tocontribute to the assist with spreading the pressure. For example, withreference to FIG. 15 a , regions of the user's epicranius 601 andsphenoid 603 below the temples may be capable of bearing higher levelsof pressure, whilst regions on either side of the user's zygomatic arch607 may be capable of bearing lower levels of pressure. In addition, itmay be preferable for some regions to only receive relatively light orsubstantially no pressure at all, such as on the zygomatic arch 607itself, or on the user's nasal ridge 617. In regions that can only bearlight or substantially no pressure, it may be advantageous for the faceengaging surface 713 to be highly compliant so as to interact gentlythereat whereby the ingress of undesirable light is reduced orprevented.

In some further embodiments, the interfacing structure 811 can comprisea discrete chassis 821, support structure 815 and face engaging surface813 (e.g., see FIGS. 20 a to 20 d ). For example, the face engagingsurface 813′ can be formed as a foam cushion 829′ that is attacheddirectly to an upper portion 827 of the support structure 815 (e.g., seeFIG. 21 a ). The upper portion 827 of the support structure 815 can beformed to extend inwardly from the periphery of the support structure815 wall as a spring-like ledge that functions to support the faceengaging surface 813′ from buckling in use.

In some alternative embodiments, the face engaging surface 813″ covers afoam cushion 829″ that is attached directly to an upper portion 827 ofthe support structure 815 (e.g., see FIG. 21 b ) such that the foamcushion 829″ is underneath the face engaging surface 813″. For example,a silicone or textile material face engaging surface 813″ can besupported loosely, or at least partially bonded, over a foam cushion829″. In another form, the face engaging surface 813″ may extend atleast partially over the foam cushion 829″ or beyond the foam cushion829″. The foam cushion 829″ can function as a spring-like, compliant,yet somewhat resilient, cushion support that is concealed beneath theface engaging surface 813″. In such embodiments, the material thatcontacts the user's face can be one that is more easily cleaned thanfoam, and may thus improve the hygiene of the interfacing structure 811.

The foam cushion (e.g., foam cushion 829′, foam cushion 829″) may, forexample, be made from any suitable material such as one or more of thefollowing example materials: Polyethylene, PU, EVA. In some cases, thefoam cushion may be a semi-open closed cell foam, such as one made ofpolyurethane. The cushion of semi-open cell foam may have a limitedpermeability, for example, a permeability characteristic in a range ofabout 0 to 20 litres per minute. A transverse cross-section through thefoam cushion may take a substantially triangular or pear-like shape witha sealing face that follows the contours of a user's face. The foam usedmay define the physical properties of the overall interfacing structure811. The foam may allow the interfacing structure 811 to accommodatemajor variations, and to successfully conform to the contours of theuser's face. The compliant nature of the foam cushion may also providemicro-adjustment and may thus form a comfortable interfacing layer wheninteracting with the user's skin.

In another example of the present technology, the foam cushion 829″ canbe fixed (either removably or permanently) to the support structure 815,or in some further embodiments, directly to the chassis 821. The foamcushion 829″ can be configured to have a varied rigidity in differentregions therealong in order to increase comfort for the user.

In certain forms of the present technology, the face engaging surface ofthe interfacing structure can comprise a cushion formed fromsemi-compressible materials such as a dense foam (e.g., polyurethanefoam or viscoelastic foam) or other similar materials such as rubberthat may be formed to be generally resiliently compressible, whilstsimultaneously being somewhat resistant to the compression. Theresulting semi-rigid, yet resiliently compressible, cushion mayadditionally be formed to maintain a curvature with a relatively smallradius, thereby providing a “one-size-fits-most” user interface cushion.

In some forms of the present technology, the interfacing structure canbe adjustably sized across a range of widths and/or shapes so as to becustomisable to the facial anthropomorphic features of the user. Forexample, with reference to FIG. 22 , the interfacing structure 911 cancomprise two adjustable face engaging surfaces 913′, each being locatedat a respective one of the left and right hand sides of the interfacingstructure 911. Each of the adjustable face engaging surfaces 913′ can beslidably moved relative to each other, and movable relative to asubstantially rigid chassis 920. When the adjustable face engagingsurfaces 913′ are slidably moved away from one another the overall widthW of the interfacing structure 911 can be increased. When the adjustableface engaging surfaces 913′ are slidably moved towards one another theoverall width W of the interfacing structure 911 can be decreased. Insome embodiments, the interfacing structure 911 can further comprise twostatic face engaging surfaces 913″, one bridging across the users noseregion, and one bridging across the user's forehead region. Each of thetwo static face engaging surfaces 913″ can be formed to have a lengththat is sufficient, whereby the respective distal ends 914″ of the twostatic face engaging surfaces 913″ overlap with the respective distalends 914′ of the adjustable face engaging surfaces 913′. In this way,the adjustable and static face engaging surfaces 913′, 913″ can togetherform a functionally continuous interfacing structure 911 around theuser's eyes. The resulting interfacing structure 911 may provide animproved fit for the user's individual facial anthropomorphic featureswhich may advantageously improve the ability of the interfacingstructure 911 to increase the translation distance of the clampingpressure applied to a user's face when tightening the positioning andstabilising structure. This may also improve the comfort of theinterfacing structure 911, and may reduce instances of localisedpressure points. In some further embodiments, the static face engagingsurfaces 913″ can be formed to have a shape and length whereby they canalso shield the interior of the display unit housing 922 from theingress of undesirable light. In some further embodiments, the staticface engaging surfaces 913″ can be formed to have a shape and lengthwhereby an air gap is formed between the static face engaging surfaces913″ and the adjustable face engaging surfaces 913′. This mayadvantageously improve the breathability and comfort of the head-mounteddisplay system 910.

In some embodiments, the adjustable face engaging surfaces 913′ can bemoved relative to the chassis 920 or display unit housing 922 by acorresponding adjustment of the relative position of the ocular lenses923 within the display unit housing 922. For example, with reference toFIGS. 23 a and 23 b , the relative position of the axis D-D, E-E throughthe ocular lenses 923 of the display unit housing 922 may be adjustable.In some embodiments, the adjustment can be made by moving a slidable tabthat projects outwardly from the display unit housing 922. As thespacing between a user's eyes may be proportional to the width of theuser's head, an adjustment of the relative position of the ocular lenses923 may thus also provide a suitable adjustment to the width of theinterfacing structure 911. For example, the relative position of theaxis D-D, E-E through the ocular lenses 923 can be moved from a widerwidth XX (FIG. 23 a ) to a narrower width YY (FIG. 23 b ), thus alsoreducing the overall width of the face engaging surfaces 913′ by aproportionally corresponding distance, from a wider width XX′ (FIG. 23 a) to a narrower width YY′ (FIG. 23 b ). Likewise, the ocular lenses 923can be moved from a narrower width YY (FIG. 23 b ) to a wider width XX(FIG. 23 a ), thus increasing the overall width of the face engagingsurfaces 913′ by a proportionally corresponding distance, from anarrower width YY′ (FIG. 23 b ) to a wider width XX′ (FIG. 23 a ). Insome embodiments, the face engaging surfaces around the nasal ledge 931can also be adjustably moved by a movement of the relative position ofthe axis D-D, E-E through the ocular lenses. For example, the nasalledge 931 can be adjustably narrowed and positioned into the spacebetween the ocular lenses in the display unit housing 922 when theinterfacing structure 911 is moved into a narrower configuration (e.g.,FIG. 23 b ), or adjustably pulled wider and removed from the spacebetween the ocular lenses in the display unit housing 922 when theinterfacing structure 911 is moved into a wider configuration (e.g.,FIG. 23 a ).

In some alternative embodiments, the adjustable face engaging surfacescan be moved relative to the chassis by a uniquely configured adjustmentmechanism, such as a slidable tab or rack-and-pinion style adjustmentmechanism.

The sides of the nose, including above the nasal bones, proximal to thefrontal process of the maxilla, and lateral cartilage can be highlyvariable in profile between users. In addition, the nasal bridge may beparticularly sensitive when a force is applied thereupon by aninterfacing structure. Furthermore, it may be important to avoidocclusion of a user's air passageway in use. The interfacing structurecan thus be formed to avoid application of a compressive pressureagainst the nasal region. With reference to FIGS. 15 a and 15 b , thechassis 621 comprises a nasal ledge 631 that effectively leaves a gap inthe otherwise substantially continuous face engaging surfaces 613. Thenasal ledge 631 can be formed to be substantially wider and deeper thana user's nose so as to avoid one or more of the potential problemsidentified above. In some further embodiments, the nasal ledge 631 canbe generally saddle-shaped. The nasal ledge 631 can be formed as acontinuation of the rest of the face engaging surfaces 613, or in someembodiments, the nasal ledge 631 can be formed as a discrete section ofthe face engaging surfaces 613. In embodiments where the nasal ledge 631is a discrete section, the nasal ledge 631 can be formed to beremovable. This may advantageously improve the ease with which the nasalledge 631 is cleaned. Exemplary nasal ledges 731, 831 are also shown inFIGS. 16 a to 16 c and FIGS. 20 a to 20 d.

For example, in some embodiments, the face engaging surfaces 1013 of thenasal ledge 1031 provided to the chassis 1021 can be formed from apliable material that is able to easily elastically bend inwards, like aflap 1033, so as to accommodate the user's nose (e.g., see FIG. 24 ).The flaps 1033 can rest on the sides of the user's nose bridge in use.In some embodiments, the face engaging surfaces 613 of the nasal ledge631 can be formed as a hood of loose material that allows the user'snose to enter therein without applying any substantial resistance force.Alternatively, in some embodiments, the face engaging surfaces 613 ofthe nasal ledge 631 can be formed from a section of highly stretchableand depressible material, such as one or more of a textile or a foam.

In general, the interfacing structure in accordance with the presenttechnology can be constructed from one or more materials such assilicone, a textile material or foam. For example, in certain forms ofthe present technology, the interfacing structure can comprise a layerof visco-elastic polyurethane foam. In a further example, in certainforms of the present technology, the interfacing structure can comprisea layer of liquid silicone rubber (LSR) that is over-moulded onto apolycarbonate or nylon chassis.

In certain forms of the present technology, the interfacing structuremay advantageously be constructed from a biocompatible material, e.g.,silicone rubber.

In some forms of the present technology, one or more portions of theinterfacing structure can be formed to be substantially opaque. In somefurther forms of the present technology, one or more portions of theinterfacing structure can be coloured matt black. This may advantageousin reducing the ingress of undesired light through the interfacingstructure itself.

It should be understood that material selection may affect thecompressibility, compliance and/or resilience properties of theinterfacing structure. For example, different foams with differentdensities will have correspondingly different compressibilitycharacteristics. Further, different silicone materials with differingthicknesses or flexibility will have different compressibilitycharacteristics.

In certain forms of the present technology, the interfacing structurecan be constructed from a biocompatible material, e.g., silicone rubber.In some further forms, the face engaging surface of the interfacingstructure can be removable. For example, the face engaging surface canbe a removable single-use, or washable cover.

The interfacing structure may have advantages in one or more forms ofthe present technology. For example, in addition to the advantagesdescribed above, the human facial structure may include variations fromperson to person that provide challenges when designing a face engagingsurface that can adapt for use with many facial variations. Thevariations may include different shapes of the facial structure (e.g.,differently shaped noses and/or differently curved cheeks) and/ordifferent tissue content (e.g., more or less fatty tissue). Thesevariations may result in an interfacing structure that works very wellfor one person but poorly for another. Also, perceived comfort may varyfrom person to person independent of facial structure.

In some forms of the present technology, the interfacing structure canfurther comprise one or more forehead interfacing structures. Theforehead interfacing structures can be adapted to engage with the user'sforehead above the display unit housing. The forehead interfacingstructures can also be integrated with the positioning and stabilisingstructure, or as a standalone region of the interfacing structure.

Medical Applications

The positioning and stabilising structure and/or interfacing structurecan be adapted to comprise biocompatible materials, as in-use, multiplecomponents of the positioning and stabilising structure and interfacingstructure may contact, e.g., the skin, of the user. Designing thepositioning and stabilising structure and interfacing structure tocomprise such materials aims to protect users from potential biologicalrisks arising from the use of the structure.

5.1.2.1 Material Biocompatibility

Biocompatible materials are considered to be materials that undergo afull evaluation of their biological responses, relevant to their safetyin use, according to ISO 10993-1 standard. The evaluation considers thenature and duration of anticipated contact with human tissues whenin-use. In some forms of the present technology, the materials utilisedin the positioning and stabilising structure and interfacing structuremay undergo at least some of the following biocompatibility tests:

Cytotoxicity—Elution Test (MeM Extract): ANSI/AAMI/ISO 10993-5

Skin Sensitisation: ISO 10993-10

Irritation: ISO 10993-10

Genotoxicity—Bacterial Mutagenicity Test: ISO 10993-3

Implantation: ISO 10993-6

5.1.2.2 Cleaning

In some forms, the positioning and stabilising structure and theinterfacing structure are designed to be used by a single user, andcleaned in a home of the user, e.g., washed in soapy water, withoutrequiring specialised equipment for disinfection and sterilisation.

In some other forms, the components of the positioning and stabilisingstructure and interfacing structure are used in labs, clinics andhospitals wherein a single head-mounted display system may be reused onmultiple persons or used during medical procedures. In each of the labs,clinics and hospitals the head-mounted display systems, or relevantcomponents thereof, can be reprocessed and be exposed to, for example,processes of thermal disinfection, chemical disinfection andsterilisation. As such, the design of the positioning and stabilisingstructure and interfacing structure may need to be validated fordisinfection and sterilisation of the structure in accordance withISO17664.

Materials may be chosen to withstand reprocessing. For example, robustmaterials may be used in the positioning and stabilising structure towithstand exposure to high level disinfection solutions and agitationwith a brush. Further, some components of the positioning andstabilising structure are separable, and in-use may be disconnected toimprove the reprocessing efficacy.

In a further example, the contacting portion of the forehead supportconnector 24 will, in use, be in contact with the user's head andtherefor may become dirty. The contacting portion may be designed to beremoved from the forehead support connector 24, to provide the abilityto remove it for cleaning and/or replacement. It may be desirable towash the contacting portion while not getting the positioning andstabilising structure wet. This may be facilitated by allowing thesecomponents to disconnect for such a purpose. In a further example, therear support hoop can be in contact with the user's hair or skin whenworn. The rear support hoop is therefore preferably made from a materialthat is easily cleaned and further, designed to be removed from thepositioning and stabilising structure for independent cleaning.

5.1.3 Materials

The surface of the interfacing structure or positioning and stabilisingstructure that engages and interacts with the user's head can be formedso as to have a shape and material properties that assist with thereduction of point loads and pressure induced markings and/or hot spotson the user's head. With reference to FIG. 30 , in some forms theresulting interfacing surface 1110 of the engaging structure 1108 candistribute the pressure load P across a larger surface area of theuser's head 1120. The shape and material properties of the engagingstructure 1108, and in particular the interfacing surface 1110, may thusprovide improved comfort for a user.

Similarly, in some forms the geometry of the edges of the interfacingsurfaces can be shaped to follow a contour that assists, in conjunctionwith the overall shape and material properties of the interfacingsurface, with matching the contour of the user's head and thusdistributing the pressure load more efficiently thereby improving thecomfort for the user. For example, the interfacing surfaces 1110 mayhave a curved contoured edge 1112 that assists with spreading thecontact load over a greater surface area, thereby reducing thelikelihood of a point load forming pressure induced markings and/or hotspots on the user's head (e.g., FIGS. 30 and 31 ).

In general, an increase in surface area can be correlated with adecrease in pressure and discomfort experienced by a user, as the forcecan be distributed across a larger contact area. However, the totalsurface area of the interfacing surface needs to be optimised in atrade-off against the overall size, bulk and weight of the interfacingstructure which may have detrimental impacts on the user comfort whenwearing the head-mounted display. For example, if the interfacingsurface is too large, a user may experience claustrophobia or experiencemuscle pain in their neck and shoulders due to the increased weight.

Furthermore, in some forms it may be important that the interfacingsurface provides a perception of comfort to the user based on thegeneral appearance and feel of the outer surface when touched, or whenworn during use. For example, by reducing sharp edges, even those thatdo not contact the user, the user's perception of comfort may beadvantageously improved. In a further example, it may be advantageous toform the interfacing surface outer surface from materials that are notscratchy, materials that are cool or that are able to wick moisture(e.g., sweat), or materials that do not irritate the user's skin and/ormaterials that are breathable.

The material properties of the interfacing surface of the interfacingstructure or positioning and stabilising structure can thus beinfluential on the overall comfort for the user.

For example, in some forms, it may be advantageous to have an engagingstructure 1108, such as the straps of the positioning and stabilisingstructure, that is able to flexibly twist T so as to comply with thecontours of a user's head (e.g., FIG. 31 ). The compliance and abilityto conform the interfacing surface to the user's head can increase thetotal contact surface area, thereby assisting with the distribution ofthe tightening force across a larger contact area and reducinguncomfortable pressure points.

In other forms, the engaging structure can comprise a compliant materialsuch as foam or textile material, where unlike thermoplastic materials,the interfacing surface can more readily adapt and form around thecurves and contours of the user's head. For example, such materialproperties may be advantageous for portions of the positioning andstabilising structure 1114 that cross around an upper portion of theuser's head 1122 (e.g., FIG. 32 ). The portions 1116 of the positioningand stabilising structure 1114 that, when not in use, would not besufficiently curved so as to engage with the upper portion of the user'shead 1122 can thus be resiliently bent without damaging the positioningand stabilising structure 1114 in order to conform and assist withdistributing the pressure load across the user's head.

In some forms the engaging structure can be elastically resilient,whereby the force distribution can be more evenly spread across theoverall interfacing surface. For example, with reference to FIG. 33 ,when the strap of the positioning and stabilising structure 1134 arestretched apart under load L, the strain force can be substantiallyevenly spread across the length of the strap. Consequently, theelasticity of the strap has a relatively flat force(y-axis)-displacement (x-axis) profile, thereby illustrating that theforce does not change much when the engaging structure is extended (ordisplaced).

In some other forms, discrete regions, segments, or portions of theinterfacing structure or positioning and stabilising structure can beformed to exhibit increased compliance when compared with the rest ofthe positioning and stabilising structure. For example, with referenceto FIG. 34 , regions 1144 of the interfacing structure 1142 that arelocated adjacent more sensitive regions of the user's face (such as thebridge of the nose), or that are located adjacent facial projections1140 such as a cheek bone, can comprise a viscoelastic foam, or similarmaterials that can allow for increased local compliance.

In some forms, foam used in the interfacing structure or positioning andstabilising structure can be formed to have a density in the range ofapproximately 55 kg/m³. In other forms, the density can be in the rangeof approximately 50-55 kg/m³. In other forms, the foam density can be inthe range of approximately 55-60 kg/m³. In other forms, the foam densitycan be in the range of approximately 45-65 kg/m³. The density can alsobe higher or lower depending on exact requirements of the foam. Forexample, the foam density can vary across the interfacing structure orpositioning and stabilising structure, so as to have localised regionsof greater compliance, or localised regions of greater stiffness.

5.1.4 Anthropometric Data Models

The geometry of the head-mounted display system can be designed withreference to anthropometric data models. The anthropometric data modelscan be developed from a collection of three-dimensional head shapes. Theanthropometric data models can be used to represent sizing andclustering based on head shape variation as shown in FIGS. 25 a to 25 b(e.g., target head geometry with top three components of variation beingshown in FIG. 25 b ), sizing based on nominated facial zones as shown inFIGS. 26 a to 26 b (e.g., shape variation in the eye/nose region withthe top four components of variation being shown in the example of FIG.26 b ), and sizing based on anthropometrical landmarks as shown in FIGS.27 a to 27 b (e.g., correlation between 2D landmarks such asrelationship between eye location and face width at the eye socket asshown in FIG. 27 b ).

For example, anthropometric data models can be used to determine sizingrequirements for the interfacing structure. These requirements canconsider head shape variations and facial feature variations based onanthropometrical landmarks. Further, relationships between faciallandmarks may be derived from the data; for example, a relationshipbetween eye location and face width. Advantageously, the interfacingstructure can be configured to accommodate these variations.

In a further example, anthropometric data models can be used inconjunction with software applications, e.g., mobile phone applications,to compare three-dimensional scans of a user's head and identify theirhead size. In this example, a user may operate the camera of theirmobile phone to produce the three-dimensional scan. The softwareapplication may be used inform the user of their head size compared tothe anthropometric data models and recommend the appropriate size, e.g.,size of positioning and stabilising structure to provide the best fit.For example, a medium size may be suggested out of a given plurality ofsize options, e.g., small, medium or large. Alternatively, a customsized positioning and stabilising structure can be made according to thethree-dimensional scan for a user according to their individual faciallandmarks.

The above-described head-mounted display systems provide alternativeexamples of the present technology structured and arranged to enhancecomfort, fit range, usability, system architecture, use in a medicalenvironment, and manufacturability.

The head-mounted display systems according to examples of the presenttechnology provide enhanced comfort with minimised facial markings andpain from prolonged use. For example, comfort may be achieved byproviding universal load distribution in which load is optimised on allcontact surfaces by avoiding or minimising load on areas prone todiscomfort and redistributing this load to areas able to comfortablybare the load, e.g., avoid or minimise load on the nasal bridge andsides of the nose and apply or redistribute this load to the top and/orrear of the head. Also, comfort may be achieved by providing regionalload distribution in which load is evenly distributed by design andmaterial selection in regions of the face where contact is unavoidable,e.g., contact points around the eyes may comprise compliant materialsthat evenly distribute load and avoid pain points/facial marking. Inaddition, comfort may be achieved by minimising weight as less weight inthe overall system leads to less tension to position and maintain thesystem in the right configuration. In this regard, the head-mounteddisplay systems according to examples of the present technology providea minimalist design (e.g., low profile) to achieve fit range, comfort,and correct configuration, e.g., componentry optimised to minimize sizeand number of components to achieve function and use of robust andlightweight materials.

The head-mounted display systems according to examples of the presenttechnology provide enhanced fit range or universal fit without tradingoff comfort, usability and cost. For example, fit range may be achievedby providing adjustability with geometry and material selection andadjustment mechanism. The components of the positioning and stabilisingstructure are designed and materials may be selected to provide desiredforce versus displacement, e.g., straps may stretch to a desired lengthunder a predetermined force. The adjustment mechanism providessimplicity as sizing of the positioning and stabilising structure andassociated straps may be manually adjusted and set, and componentry canbe minimised while maximising ease of use, e.g., single handedadjustment of straps and alternative use of magnetic clips (e.g., easyremoval without losing strap settings) for connection. Also, theadjustment mechanism provides minimal size and weight which reduces thebulk of adjustment mechanisms with optimal materials and minimalcomponents. Further, enhanced fit range may be achieved byanthropometrics in which adjustment range may be designed to fit theoptimal anthropometric range of the desired market.

The head-mounted display systems according to examples of the presenttechnology provide enhanced usability with low-touch simple set upsolutions and low dexterity threshold solutions. For example, low-touchset up may be achieved with self-adjusting solutions includingstretchable materials or simple mechanical actuation where only a fewminor adjustments may be necessary for correct fit. Also, the system mayinclude adjust and lock solutions to facilitate usability (i.e., set andforget), e.g., mechanisms to guide adjustment (e.g., magnets) andlocking mechanisms to set adjustment (e.g., clips). Further, the systemprovides ease of use so that it is capable of adjustment when worn by auser with low-dexterity and/or minimal vision.

The head-mounted display systems according to examples of the presenttechnology provide enhanced system architecture which optimisescomponentry location such that it minimises cost while maximisingcomfort, fit range and usability. For example, the system may provideenhanced weight distribution in which electrical and/or mechanicalcomponents are positioned in ideal locations from a comfort perspective.Also, the system may comprise modularity such that components may beselected or upgraded based on user preference, e.g., electricalcomponent, face contacting cushions, straps, and/or ear buds may beselected based on preference.

The head-mounted display systems according to examples of the presenttechnology enhance use in a medical environment. For example, the systemmay be biocompatible and/or cleanable with materials selected that arecleanable for re-use in a medical environment and/or passbiocompatibility requirements.

The head-mounted display systems according to examples of the presenttechnology enhance manufacturability by providing mass produciblesolutions at low cost while maintaining high quality and functionality.

As noted above, the present technology may find particular applicationin head-mounted display systems in the form of virtual reality (VR)display apparatus and/or augmented reality (AR) display apparatus.

As shown in FIG. 35 , an exemplary VR display apparatus 3000 inaccordance with one aspect of the present technology comprises thefollowing functional aspects: a display unit 3100, a display housing3200, and a positioning and stabilizing structure 3500. In some forms, afunctional aspect may provide one or more physical components. In someforms, one or more physical components may provide one or morefunctional aspects. In use, the display unit 3100 is arranged to bepositioned proximate and anterior to the user's eyes, so as to allow theuser to view the display unit 3100.

In some examples, the display unit 3100 may include a display screen3104, a display housing 3200, an interfacing structure 3300, and/or anoptical lens 3400. These components may be integrally formed in a singledisplay unit 3100, or they may be separable and selectively connected bythe user to form the display unit 3100. Additionally, the display screen3104, the display housing 3200, the interfacing structure 3300, and/orthe optical lens 3400 may be included in the display apparatus 3000, butmay not be part of the display unit 3100.

In an example, the display screen or display 3104 may be configured toselectively output computer generated images that are visible to theuser in an operational position. In some forms, the display screen 3104is an electronic display. The display screen 3104 may be a liquidcrystal display (LCD), or a light emitting diode (LED) screen.

In some forms, the display housing 3200 provides a support structure forthe display screen 3104, in order to maintain a position of at leastsome of the components of the display screen 3104 relative to oneanother, and may additionally protect the display screen 3104 and/orother components of the display unit 3100. The display housing 3200 maybe constructed from a material suitable to provide protection fromimpact forces to the display screen 3104. The display housing 3200 mayalso contact the user's face, and may be constructed from abiocompatible material suitable for limiting irritation to the user.

In some forms, the interfacing structure 3300 may extend at leastpartially around the display housing 3200, and may form a viewingopening. The viewing opening may at least partially receive the user'sface in use. Specifically, the user's eyes may be received within theviewing opening formed by the interfacing structure 3300.

In some forms, the display apparatus 3000 may include a light shieldthat may be constructed from an opaque material and can block ambientlight from reaching the user's eyes. The light shield may be part of theinterfacing structure 3300, or may be a separate element.

In an example, at least one lens 3400 may be disposed between the user'seyes and the display screen 3104. The user may view an image provided bythe display screen 3104 through the lens 3400. The at least one lens3400 may assist in spacing the display screen 3104 away from the user'sface to limit eye strain. The at least one lens 3400 may also assist inbetter observing the image being displayed by the display screen 3104.In some forms, the at least one lens includes a first lens configured tobe aligned with the user's left eye in the operational position and asecond lens configured to be aligned with the user's right eye in theoperational position. In some forms, the lenses 3400 are Fresnel lenses.In some forms, the display comprises a binocular display partitionedinto a first section and a second section, the first section alignedwith the first lens and the second section aligned with the second lens.

In an example, the display apparatus 3000 includes a control system 7000(see FIG. 36 ) that assists in controlling the output received by theuser. Specifically, the control system 7000 can control visual outputfrom the display screen 3104.

In some forms, the control system 7000 may include sensors 7002 thatmonitor different parameters or values (e.g., in the physicalenvironment), and communicates measured parameters to a processor 7004.The output received by the user may be affected by the measuredparameters. For example, the processor 7004 is configured to change thecomputer generated images output by the display based on the measuredvalue.

In some forms, the sensors 7002 may include an orientation sensor thatcan sense the orientation of the user's body, at least one camera thatcan be positioned to view the physical environment of the user (e.g., inorder to determine orientation), and/or an eye sensor that can trackmovement of the user's eyes to determine which direction at least one ofthe user's eyes are looking.

In some forms, the processor 7004 may comprise a computer or smartphone.

In some forms, the control system 7000 is integrated into the displayunit 3100. In other forms, the control system 7000 is housed in acontrol system support 7060 that is separate from, but connected to(e.g., electrically connected to) the display unit 3100.

In some forms of the display apparatus 3000 include a controller 3600that can be engagable by the user in order to provide user input to thevirtual environment and/or to control the operation of the displayapparatus 3000. The controller 3600 can be connected to the display unit3100, and provide the user the ability to interact with virtual objectsoutput to the user from the display unit 3100. For example, thecontroller 3600 may have at least one button 3602 (See FIG. 35 )selectively engageable by a user's finger, the controller 3600 being incommunication with the processor 7004 and configured to send a signal tothe processor when the at least one button 3602 is engaged, theprocessor configured to change the computer generated images output bythe display 3104 based on the signal.

FIG. 37 shows an exemplary AR display apparatus 3000 in accordance withone aspect of the present technology comprising the following functionalaspects: a display unit 3100, a display housing 3200, and a positioningand stabilizing structure 3500.

In some examples, the display unit 3100 may include a display screen ordisplay 3104 supported by the display housing 3200. The display screen3104 is configured to selectively output one or more computer generatedimages observable by a user. The display screen 3104 may include atleast one optical lens 3400 constructed from a transparent ortranslucent material configured to allow a user to observe theirphysical environment while observing the computer generated image. Forexample, the display screen 3104 may be glass, so the user can seethrough the display screen 3104. This may be particularly beneficial inAR applications, so that the user can continue to see the physicalenvironment.

In some forms, the at least one lens 3400 includes a first lensconfigured to be aligned with the user's left eye in the operationalposition and a second lens configured to be aligned with the user'sright eye in the operational position, e.g., see FIG. 37 .

In an example, the AR display apparatus 3000 includes a control system7000 (see FIG. 36 ) that assists in controlling the output received bythe user. Specifically, the control system 7000 can control visualoutput from the display screen 3104. In some forms, the control system7000 may include sensors 7002 that monitor different parameters orvalues (e.g., in the physical environment), and communicates measuredparameters to a processor 7004. The output received by the user may beaffected by the measured parameters. For example, the processor 7004 isconfigured to change the computer generated images output by the displaybased on the measured value.

5.2 GLOSSARY

For the purposes of the present technology disclosure, in certain formsof the present technology, one or more of the following definitions mayapply. In other forms of the present technology, alternative definitionsmay apply.

5.2.1 General

Leak: The word leak will be taken to be an unintended exposure to light.In one example, leak may occur as the result of an incomplete sealbetween a display unit and a user's face.

5.2.2 Materials

Closed-cell foam: Foam comprising cells that are completelyencapsulated, i.e. closed cells.

Elastane: A polymer made from polyurethane.

Elastomer: A polymer that displays elastic properties. For example,silicone elastomer.

Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA): A copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate.

Foam: Any material, for example polyurethane foam or viscoelastic foam,having gas bubbles introduced during manufacture to produce alightweight cellular form.

Neoprene: A synthetic rubber that is produced by polymerization ofchloroprene. Neoprene is used in trade products: Breath-O-Prene.

Nylon: A synthetic polyamide that has elastic properties and can beused, for example, to form fibres/filaments for use in textiles.

Open-cell foam: Foam comprising cells, i.e. gas bubbles that aren'tcompletely encapsulated, i.e. open cells.

Polycarbonate: a typically transparent thermoplastic polymer ofBisphenol-A Carbonate.

Polyethylene: A thermoplastic that is resistant to chemicals andmoisture.

Polyurethane (PU): A plastic material made by copolymerizing anisocyanate and a polyhydric alcohol and, for example, can take the formof foam (polyurethane foam) and rubber (polyurethane rubber).

Semi-open foam: Foam comprising a combination of closed and open(encapsulated) cells.

Silicone or Silicone Elastomer: A synthetic rubber. In thisspecification, a reference to silicone is a reference to liquid siliconerubber (LSR) or a compression moulded silicone rubber (CMSR). One formof commercially available LSR is SILASTIC (included in the range ofproducts sold under this trademark), manufactured by Dow Corning.Another manufacturer of LSR is Wacker. Unless otherwise specified to thecontrary, an exemplary form of LSR has a Shore A (or Type A) indentationhardness in the range of about 35 to about 45 as measured using ASTMD2240.

Spacer Fabric: A composite construction comprising two outer textilesubstrates joined together and kept apart by an intermediate layer ofmonofilaments.

Spandex: An elastic fibre or fabric, primarily comprising polyurethane.Spandex is used in trade products: Lycra.

Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE): Are generally low modulus, flexiblematerials that can be stretched at room temperature with an ability toreturn to their approximate original length when stress is released.Trade products that use TPE include: Hytrel®, Dynaflex™, Medalist® MD-115.

Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU): A thermoplastic elastomer with a highdurability and flexibility.

5.2.3 Mechanical Properties

Resilience: Ability of a material to absorb energy when deformedelastically and to release the energy upon unloading.

Resilient: Will release substantially all of the energy when unloaded.Includes e.g. certain silicones, and thermoplastic elastomers.

Hardness: The ability of a material per se to resist deformation (e.g.described by a Young's Modulus, or an indentation hardness scalemeasured on a standardised sample size).

-   ‘Soft’ materials may include silicone or thermo-plastic elastomer    (TPE), and may, e.g. readily deform under finger pressure.-   ‘Hard’ materials may include polycarbonate, polypropylene, steel or    aluminium, and may not e.g. readily deform under finger pressure.

Stiffness (or rigidity) of a structure or component: The ability of thestructure or component to resist deformation in response to an appliedload. The load may be a force or a moment, e.g. compression, tension,bending or torsion. The structure or component may offer differentresistances in different directions.

Floppy structure or component: A structure or component that will changeshape, e.g. bend, when caused to support its own weight, within arelatively short period of time such as 1 second.

Rigid structure or component: A structure or component that will notsubstantially change shape when subject to the loads typicallyencountered in use.

-   As an example, an I-beam may comprise a different bending stiffness    (resistance to a bending load) in a first direction in comparison to    a second, orthogonal direction. In another example, a structure or    component may be floppy in a first direction and rigid in a second    direction.    5.2.4 User Interface

Frame: Frame will be taken to mean the display housing unit that bearsthe load of tension between two or more points of connection with ahoop.

Interpupillary Distance: The distance between the centres of the pupilsof the eyes.

Hoop: Hoop will be taken to mean part of a positioning and stabilizingstructure designed for use on a head. For example the hoop may comprisea collection of one or more struts, ties and stiffeners configured tolocate and retain a user interface in position on a user's face forholding a display unit in an operational position in front of a user'sface. The hoop may be formed of a soft, flexible, elastic material suchas a laminated composite of foam and fabric/textile.

Membrane: Membrane will be taken to mean a typically thin element thathas, preferably, substantially no resistance to bending, but hasresistance to being stretched.

Seal: May be a noun form (“a seal”) which refers to a structure, or averb form (“to seal”) which refers to the effect. Two elements may beconstructed and/or arranged to ‘seal’ or to effect ‘sealing’therebetween without requiring a separate ‘seal’ element per se.

Shell: A shell will be taken to mean a curved, relatively thin structurehaving bending, tensile and compressive stiffness. For example, a curvedstructural wall of a display unit housing may be a shell. In some forms,a shell may be faceted.

Stiffener: A stiffener will be taken to mean a structural componentdesigned to increase the bending resistance of another component in atleast one direction.

Strut: A strut will be taken to be a structural component designed toincrease the compression resistance of another component in at least onedirection.

Swivel (noun): A subassembly of components configured to rotate about acommon axis, preferably independently, preferably under low torque. Inone form, the swivel may be constructed to rotate through an angle of atleast 360 degrees. In another form, the swivel may be constructed torotate through an angle less than 360 degrees.

Tie (noun): A structure designed to resist tension.

5.2.5 Shape of Structures

Products in accordance with the present technology may comprise one ormore three-dimensional mechanical structures, for example the sealforming portion of the display unit. The three-dimensional structuresmay be bounded by two-dimensional surfaces. These surfaces may bedistinguished using a label to describe an associated surfaceorientation, location, function, or some other characteristic. Forexample, a structure may comprise one or more of an anterior surface, aposterior surface, an interior surface and an exterior surface. Inanother example, a seal forming structure may comprise a face-contacting(e.g. outer) surface, and a separate non-face-contacting (e.g. undersideor inner) surface. In another example, a structure may comprise a firstsurface and a second surface.

To facilitate describing the shape of the three-dimensional structuresand the surfaces, we first consider a cross-section through a surface ofthe structure at a point, P. FIG. 2 a to FIG. 2 e illustrate examples ofcross-sections at P on a surface, and the resulting plane curves. Theoutward normal at P points away from the surface. In some examples wedescribe the surface from the point of view of an imaginary small personstanding upright on the surface.

5.2.5.1 Curvature in One Dimension

The curvature of a plane curve at P may be described as having a sign(e.g. positive, negative) and a magnitude (e.g. 1/radius of a circlethat just touches the curve at P).

Positive curvature: If the curve at P turns towards the outward normal,the curvature at that point will be taken to be positive (if theimaginary small person leaves P they must walk uphill). See FIG. 2 a(relatively large positive curvature compared to FIG. 2 b ) and FIG. 2 b(relatively small positive curvature compared to FIG. 2 a ). Such curvesare often referred to as concave.

Zero curvature: If the curve at P is a straight line, the curvature willbe taken to be zero (if the imaginary small person leaves P, they canwalk on a level, neither up nor down). See FIG. 2 c.

Negative curvature: If the curve at P turns away from the outwardnormal, the curvature in that direction at that point will be taken tobe negative (if the imaginary small person leaves the point p they mustwalk downhill). See FIG. 2 d (relatively small negative curvaturecompared to FIG. 2 e ) and FIG. 2 e (relatively large negative curvaturecompared to FIG. 2 d ). Such curves are often referred to as convex.

5.2.5.2 Curvature of Two Dimensional Surfaces

A description of the shape at a given point on a two-dimensional surfacein accordance with the present technology may include multiple normalcross-sections. The multiple cross-sections may cut the surface in aplane that includes the outward normal (a “normal plane”), and eachcross-section may be taken in a different direction. Each cross-sectionresults in a plane curve with a corresponding curvature. The differentcurvatures at that point may have the same sign, or a different sign.Each of the curvatures at that point has a magnitude, e.g. relativelysmall. The plane curves in FIGS. 2 a to 2 e could be examples of suchmultiple cross-sections at a particular point.

Principal curvatures and directions: The directions of the normal planeswhere the curvature of the curve takes its maximum and minimum valuesare called the principal directions. In the examples of FIG. 2 a to FIG.2 e , the maximum curvature occurs in FIG. 2 a , and the minimum occursin FIG. 2 e , hence FIG. 2 a and FIG. 2 e are cross sections in theprincipal directions. The principal curvatures at P are the curvaturesin the principal directions.

Region of a surface: A connected set of points on a surface. The set ofpoints in a region may have similar characteristics, e.g. curvatures orsigns.

Saddle region: A region where at each point, the principal curvatureshave opposite signs, that is, one is positive, and the other is negative(depending on the direction to which the imaginary person turns, theymay walk uphill or downhill). A saddle region is shown, for example, inFIG. 2 h.

Dome region: A region where at each point the principal curvatures havethe same sign, e.g. both positive (a “concave dome”) or both negative (a“convex dome”). A dome region is shown, for example, in FIG. 2 g.

Edge of a surface: A boundary or limit of a surface or region. An edgeon a surface is shown, for example, in FIG. 2 g.

Path: In certain forms of the present technology, ‘path’ will be takento mean a path in the mathematical-topological sense, e.g. a continuousspace curve from f(0) to f(1) on a surface. In certain forms of thepresent technology, a ‘path’ may be described as a route or course,including e.g. a set of points on a surface. (The path for the imaginaryperson is where they walk on the surface, and is analogous to a gardenpath). A path on surface is shown, for example, in FIG. 2 g.

5.2.5.3 Space Curves

Space curves: Unlike a plane curve, a space curve does not necessarilylie in any particular plane. A space curve may be considered to be aone-dimensional piece of three-dimensional space. An imaginary personwalking on a strand of the DNA helix walks along a space curve. Atypical human left ear comprises a helix, which is a left-hand helix,see FIG. 2 i . A typical human right ear comprises a helix, which is aright-hand helix, see FIG. 2 k . FIG. 2 j shows a right-hand helix. Theedge of a structure, e.g. the edge of a membrane, may follow a spacecurve. In general, a space curve may be described by a curvature and atorsion at each point on the space curve. Torsion is a measure of howthe curve turns out of a plane. Torsion has a sign and a magnitude. Thetorsion at a point on a space curve may be characterised with referenceto the tangent, normal and binormal vectors at that point.

Binormal unit vector: The binormal unit vector is perpendicular to boththe tangent vector and the principal normal vector. Its direction may bedetermined by a right-hand rule (see e.g. FIG. 2 m ), or alternativelyby a left-hand rule (FIG. 2 l ).

Osculating plane: The plane containing the unit tangent vector and theunit principal normal vector. See FIGS. 2 l and 2 m.

Torsion of a space curve: The torsion at a point of a space curve is themagnitude of the rate of change of the binormal unit vector at thatpoint. It measures how much the curve deviates from the osculatingplane. A space curve which lies in a plane has zero torsion. A spacecurve which deviates a relatively small amount from the osculating planewill have a relatively small magnitude of torsion (e.g. a gently slopinghelical path). A space curve which deviates a relatively large amountfrom the osculating plane will have a relatively large magnitude oftorsion (e.g. a steeply sloping helical path). With reference to FIG. 2j , since T2>T1, the magnitude of the torsion near the top coils of thehelix of FIG. 2 j is greater than the magnitude of the torsion of thebottom coils of the helix of FIG. 2 j.

With reference to the right-hand rule of FIG. 2 m , a space curveturning towards the direction of the right-hand binormal may beconsidered as having a right-hand positive torsion (e.g. a right-handhelix as shown in FIG. 2 j ). A space curve turning away from thedirection of the right-hand binormal may be considered as having aright-hand negative torsion (e.g. a left-hand helix).

Equivalently, and with reference to a left-hand rule (see FIG. 2 l ), aspace curve turning towards the direction of the left-hand binormal maybe considered as having a left-hand positive torsion (e.g. a left-handhelix). Hence left-hand positive is equivalent to right-hand negative.

5.2.5.4 Holes

A surface may have a one-dimensional hole, e.g. a hole bounded by aplane curve or by a space curve. Thin structures (e.g. a membrane) witha hole, may be described as having a one-dimensional hole. See forexample the one-dimensional hole in the surface of structure shown inFIG. 2 n , bounded by a plane curve.

A structure may have a two-dimensional hole, e.g. a hole bounded by asurface. For example, an inflatable tyre has a two-dimensional holebounded by the interior surface of the tyre. See the two-dimensionalhole through the structure shown in FIGS. 2 o and 2 p , bounded by asurface as shown.

5.3 OTHER REMARKS

Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise and where a range ofvalues is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to thetenth of the unit of the lower limit, between the upper and lower limitof that range, and any other stated or intervening value in that statedrange is encompassed within the technology. The upper and lower limitsof these intervening ranges, which may be independently included in theintervening ranges, are also encompassed within the technology, subjectto any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the statedrange includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either orboth of those included limits are also included in the technology.

Furthermore, where a value or values are stated herein as beingimplemented as part of the technology, it is understood that such valuesmay be approximated, unless otherwise stated, and such values may beutilized to any suitable significant digit to the extent that apractical technical implementation may permit or require it.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which this technology belongs. Although any methods andmaterials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also beused in the practice or testing of the present technology, a limitednumber of the exemplary methods and materials are described herein.

When a particular material is identified as being used to construct acomponent, obvious alternative materials with similar properties may beused as a substitute. Furthermore, unless specified to the contrary, anyand all components herein described are understood to be capable ofbeing manufactured and, as such, may be manufactured together orseparately.

It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, thesingular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include their plural equivalents,unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by referencein their entirety to disclose and describe the methods and/or materialswhich are the subject of those publications. The publications discussedherein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing dateof the present application. Nothing herein is to be construed as anadmission that the present technology is not entitled to antedate suchpublication by virtue of prior invention. Further, the dates ofpublication provided may be different from the actual publication dates,which may need to be independently confirmed.

The terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted asreferring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner,indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may bepresent, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, orsteps that are not expressly referenced.

The subject headings used in the detailed description are included onlyfor the ease of reference of the reader and should not be used to limitthe subject matter found throughout the disclosure or the claims. Thesubject headings should not be used in construing the scope of theclaims or the claim limitations.

Although the technology herein has been described with reference toparticular examples/forms/embodiments, it is to be understood that theseexamples/forms/embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles andapplications of the technology. In some instances, the terminology andsymbols may imply specific details that are not required to practice thetechnology. For example, although the terms “first” and “second” may beused, unless otherwise specified, they are not intended to indicate anyorder but may be utilised to distinguish between distinct elements.Furthermore, although process steps in the methodologies may bedescribed or illustrated in an order, such an ordering is not required.Those skilled in the art will recognize that such ordering may bemodified and/or aspects thereof may be conducted concurrently or evensynchronously.

It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be madeto the illustrative examples/forms/embodiments and that otherarrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scopeof the technology.

5.4 REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

Feature Item Number head-mounted display system  10 user interfacingstructure  11 display unit  12 positioning and stabilising  14 structureouter layer  15 rear support hoop  16 internal layer  17 temporalconnector  18 posterior edge region  20 superior edge region  21 displayunit housing  22 forehead support connector  24 forehead support  25temporal arm  26 forehead contacting portion  27 anterior end  28forehead contacting surface  29 posterior end  30 rigidiser  32resilient component  34 face contacting surface  35 tab  36 parietalportion  38 occipital portion  40 connection strap  42 eyelet  44forehead support strap  48 adjustment mechanism  50 forehead supporthole  52 tab portion  54 head-mounted display unit system 110 displayunit 112 positioning and stabilising 114 structure rear support hoop 116temporal connector 118 posterior edge region 120 superior edge region121 display unit housing 122 forehead support connector 124 temporal arm126 parietal portion 138 occipital portion 140 connection straps 142forehead support strap 148 adjustment mechanism 150 forehead supporthole 152 tab portion 154 forehead support rigidiser 156 head-mounteddisplay system 210 display unit 212 positioning and stabilising 214structure rear support hoop 216 temporal connector 218 posterior edgeregion 220 display unit housing 222 parietal portion 238 occipitalportion 240 connection straps 242 head-mounted display system 310display unit 312 positioning and stabilising 314 structure rear supporthoop 316 temporal connector 318 display unit housing 322 foreheadsupport connector 324 temporal arm 326 rigidiser 332 parietal portion338 occipital portion 340 forehead support strap 348 extended rigidiser358 biased extended rigidiser 360 medial adjustment mechanism 362 holes363 temporal adjustment mechanism 364 posterior end 368 head-mounteddisplay system 410 interfacing structure 411 facial interface 413positioning and stabilising 414 structure display unit housing 422head-mounted display system 510 display unit 512 positioning andstabilising 514 structure support hoop 516 connectors 518 posterior edgeregions 520 display unit housing 522 forehead support connector 524 arms526 anterior end 528 posterior end 530 frontal portion 538 plane 539occipital portion 540 pivot point 541 connection strap 542 slots 543displacement 545 plane 549 forehead support rigidiser 556 adjustmentmechanism 562 holes 563 coupling 564 guide 566 posterior ends 568sphenoid 603 zygomatic arch 607 head-mounted display system 610interfacing structure 611 display unit 612 face engaging surfaces 613positioning and stabilising 614 structure interface support structure615 ridge 617 chassis 621 display unit housing 622 engagement elements623 nasal ledge 631 frontal portion 638 occipital portion 640 centralsupport structure 662 interfacing structure 711 face engaging surface713 support structure 715 chassis 721 display unit housing 722engagement elements 723 supporting flange 725 nasal ledge 731interfacing structure 811 face engaging surface 813 support structure815 chassis 821 upper portion 827 nasal ledge 831 head-mounted displaysystem 910 interfacing structure 911 chassis 920 display unit housing922 ocular lenses 923 nasal ledge 931 face engaging surfaces 1013 chassis 1021  nasal ledge 1031  flap 1033  interfacing structure  711′face engaging surface  713′ support structure  715′ face engagingsurface  813′ foam cushion  829′ face engaging surfaces  913′interfacing structure  711″ face engaging surface  713″ supportstructure  715″ face engaging surface  813″ foam cushion  829″ faceengaging surfaces  913″ engaging structure 1108  interfacing structure1110  curved contoured edge 1112  positioning and stabilising 1114 structure portion 1116  user's head 1120  user's head 1122  positioningand stabilising 1134  structure facial projection 1140  interfacingstructure 1142  region 1144  display apparatus 3000  display unit 3100 display screen 3104  display housing 3200  optical lens 3400 positioning and stabilizing 3500  structure controller 3600  button3602  control system 7000  sensor 7002  processor 7004 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A head-mounted display system, comprising:an interfacing structure for a display unit constructed and arranged tobe in opposing relation with a user's face, wherein the interfacingstructure comprises a substantially continuous face engaging surfaceadapted to contact the user's face around a periphery of the user'seyes, wherein the interfacing structure comprises an elastomericmaterial, and wherein one or more regions of the interfacing structurecomprises varying thicknesses to provide varying compliance around aperiphery of the interfacing structure when compressed against theuser's face in use; and a nasal ledge comprising a support structure anda pair of elastic flaps, each of the pair of elastic flaps configured toproject inwardly from the support structure towards one another so thatthe pair of elastic flaps form a gap therebetween adapted to receive theuser's nose, wherein each of the pair of elastic flaps includes a faceengaging surface adapted to contact a respective side of the user'snose, wherein each of the pair of elastic flaps is configured andarranged to contact the respective side of the user's nose andelastically bend towards the display unit so as to rest on therespective side of the user's nose without applying substantialcompressive pressure on the respective side of the user's nose.
 2. Thehead-mounted display system according to claim 1, wherein the nasalledge forms a hood configured and arranged to allow the user's nose toenter therein.
 3. The head-mounted display system according to claim 1,wherein at least a portion of the face engaging surface of the nasalledge is generally saddle-shaped.
 4. The head-mounted display systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the nasal ledge is configured and arrangedto lessen the compressive pressure on sides of the user's nose comparedto other regions around the periphery of the interfacing structure. 5.The head-mounted display system according to claim 1, wherein theelastomeric material comprises silicone.
 6. The head-mounted displaysystem according to claim 1, wherein the interfacing structure furthercomprises a textile material and/or foam.
 7. The head-mounted displaysystem according to claim 1, wherein the interfacing structure comprisesa support structure and a flange that projects inwardly from the supportstructure.
 8. The head-mounted display system according to claim 7,wherein one or more regions of the flange comprises said varyingthicknesses.
 9. The head-mounted display system according to claim 7,wherein one or more regions of the support structure comprises saidvarying thicknesses and/or stiffening ribs.
 10. The head-mounted displaysystem according to claim 9, wherein the support structure comprises aplurality of distinct thicker and thinner regions of the elastomericmaterial.
 11. The head-mounted display system according to claim 9,wherein the support structure comprises a blend of incrementally varyingthicknesses of the elastomeric material.
 12. The head-mounted displaysystem according to claim 9, wherein the stiffening ribs comprisesregions of thicker elastomeric material.
 13. The head-mounted displaysystem according to claim 1, wherein the interfacing structure comprisesa support structure and a flange that projects inwardly from the supportstructure, wherein the flange comprises the substantially continuousface engaging surface adapted to contact the user's face, wherein theflange comprises the elastomeric material, and wherein the elastomericmaterial of the flange and the substantially continuous face engagingsurface thereof is configured and arranged to contact the user's face.14. The head-mounted display system according to claim 7, wherein anedge of the flange along its inner perimeter at least partially forms aviewing opening configured to at least partially receive the user'seyes.
 15. The head-mounted display system according to claim 7, whereinthe flange is in the form of a flap or a membrane and/or the flange isthinner than the support structure.
 16. The head-mounted display systemaccording to claim 7, wherein the support structure and the flangecomprise an integral, one-piece construction from the elastomericmaterial.
 17. The head-mounted display system according to claim 1,wherein the interfacing structure further comprises a chassis, and thechassis comprises said varying thicknesses.
 18. The head-mounted displaysystem according to claim 17, further comprising the display unit andwherein the display unit further comprises a housing, and the chassis isremovably mountable to the housing of the display unit.
 19. Thehead-mounted display system according to claim 18, wherein the chassisincludes one or more engagement elements around the periphery thereofthat are configured to detachably mate with a corresponding element onthe housing.
 20. The head-mounted display system according to claim 1,wherein the face engaging surface is adapted to contact the user's faceon regions of the epicranius, the sphenoid, across the outer cheekregion between the sphenoid to the left or right zygomatic arch, overthe zygomatic arch, across the inner cheek region from the zygomaticarches towards the alar crests, and on the nasal ridge inferior to thesellion to enclose a portion of the user's face therebetween, andwherein the interfacing structure is configured to bear higher levels offorce in the regions of the epicranius and the sphenoid, and theinterfacing structure is configured to bear lower levels of force in theregions of zygomatic arch, cheek regions, and nasal ridge.
 21. Thehead-mounted display system according to claim 1, wherein theinterfacing structure further comprises a foam cushion, and wherein theface engaging surface covers the foam cushion such that the foam cushionis underneath the face engaging surface.
 22. The head-mounted displaysystem according to claim 1, wherein the substantially continuous faceengaging surface comprises a negative or convex curvature configured andarranged to contact the user's face.
 23. The head-mounted display systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the interfacing structure is customized tofacial anthropomorphic features of the user.
 24. A virtual realitydisplay apparatus comprising: the head-mounted display system accordingto claim 1 and further comprising the display unit, wherein, the displayunit comprises: a display configured to selectively output computergenerated images that are visible to the user in an operationalposition, a housing that supports the display, the interfacing structureat least partially forms a viewing opening configured to at leastpartially receive the user's face in the operational position, and theinterfacing structure being constructed at least partially from anopaque material configured to at least partially block ambient lightfrom reaching the viewing opening in the operational position, and atleast one lens coupled to the housing and disposed within the viewingopening and aligned with the display so that in the operationalposition, the user can view the display through the at least one lens;and the head-mounted display system further comprising: a control systemhaving at least one sensor in communication with a processor, whereinthe at least one sensor is configured to measure a parameter andcommunicate a measured value to the processor, and wherein the processoris configured to change the computer generated images output by thedisplay based on the measured value.
 25. The virtual reality displayapparatus according to claim 24, wherein: the at least one lens includesa first lens configured to be aligned with the user's left eye in theoperational position and a second lens configured to be aligned with theuser's right eye in the operational position, the first lens and thesecond lens being Fresnel lenses; and the display comprises a binoculardisplay partitioned into a first section and a second section, the firstsection aligned with the first lens and the second section aligned withthe second lens.
 26. The virtual reality display apparatus according toclaim 24, further comprising a controller having at least one buttonselectively engageable by a user's finger, the controller being incommunication with the processor and configured to send a signal to theprocessor when the at least one button is engaged, the processorconfigured to change the computer generated images output by the displaybased on the signal.
 27. An augmented reality display apparatuscomprising: the head-mounted display system according to claim 1 andfurther comprising the display unit and a positioning and stabilizingstructure structured and arranged to hold the display unit in anoperational position over a user's face in use, wherein, the displayunit comprises: a display constructed from a transparent or translucentmaterial and configured to selectively output computer generated images,a housing that supports the display, and wherein in an operationalposition, the positioning and stabilizing structure configured tosupport the display unit, the display configured to be aligned with theuser's eyes in the operational position such that the user may at leastpartially view a physical environment through the display regardless ofthe computer generated images output by the display; and thehead-mounted display system further comprising: a control system havingat least one sensor in communication with a processor, wherein the atleast one sensor is configured to measure a parameter and communicate ameasured value to the processor, and wherein the processor is configuredto change the computer generated images output by the display based onthe measured value.
 28. The augmented reality display apparatusaccording to claim 27, wherein the display includes a first lensconfigured to be aligned with the user's left eye in the operationalposition and a second lens configured to be aligned with the user'sright eye in the operational position.
 29. The head-mounted displaysystem according to claim 1, wherein the face engaging surface of eachof the pair of elastic flaps forms a continuation with the face engagingsurface of the interfacing structure.
 30. The head-mounted displaysystem according to claim 1, wherein the pair of elastic flaps areconfigured and arranged to elastically bend independent from oneanother.
 31. The head-mounted display system according to claim 1,wherein the pair of elastic flaps form a gap therebetween adapted toreceive the user's nose, each of the pair of elastic flaps includes aninner edge configured to form the gap, and the inner edge of each of thepair of elastic flaps is configured to travel towards the display unitwhen each of the pair of elastic flaps contact the respective side ofthe user's nose.
 32. The head-mounted display system according to claim1, wherein each of the pair of elastic flaps is configured toelastically bend towards the display unit when the interfacing structureis compressed against the user's face in use.
 33. The head-mounteddisplay system according to claim 1, wherein each of the pair of elasticflaps is configured to project inwardly from the support structuretowards one another in a cantilever manner.
 34. The head-mounted displaysystem according to claim 1, further comprising a positioning andstabilising structure structured and arranged to support a weight of thedisplay unit.
 35. A head-mounted display system, comprising: aninterfacing structure for a display unit constructed and arranged to bein opposing relation with a user's face, wherein the interfacingstructure comprises a substantially continuous face engaging surfaceadapted to contact the user's face around a periphery of the user'seyes, wherein the interfacing structure comprises an elastomericmaterial, and wherein the interfacing structure comprises a membraneincluding the substantially continuous face engaging surface, andwherein the membrane comprises the elastomeric material; and a nasalledge comprising a support structure and a pair of elastic flaps, eachof the pair of elastic flaps configured to project inwardly from thesupport structure towards one another so that the pair of elastic flapsform a gap therebetween adapted to receive the user's nose, wherein eachof the pair of elastic flaps includes a face engaging surface adapted tocontact a respective side of the user's nose, wherein each of the pairof elastic flaps is configured and arranged to contact the respectiveside of the user's nose and elastically bend towards the display unit soas to rest on the respective side of the user's nose without applyingsubstantial compressive pressure on the respective side of the user'snose, and wherein the face engaging surface of each of the pair ofelastic flaps forms a continuation with the substantially continuousface engaging surface of the membrane.
 36. The head-mounted displaysystem according to claim 35, wherein the face engaging surface of eachof the pair of elastic flaps and the substantially continuous faceengaging surface of the interfacing structure together form afunctionally continuous interfacing structure around the periphery ofthe user's eyes.
 37. The head-mounted display system according to claim35, wherein the nasal ledge at least partially overlaps with theinterfacing structure.
 38. A head-mounted display system, comprising: aninterfacing structure for a display unit constructed and arranged to bein opposing relation with a user's face, wherein the interfacingstructure comprises a face contacting portion and a non-face contactingportion, wherein the interfacing structure comprises an elastomericmaterial, wherein the face contacting portion comprises a membraneincluding a face engaging surface adapted to contact the user's facearound a periphery of the user's eyes, wherein the non-face contactingportion comprises a support structure and a ledge configured to projectinwardly from the support structure, wherein the interfacing structurefurther comprises a foam cushion, wherein the membrane and the faceengaging surface thereof covers the foam cushion such that the foamcushion is underneath the face engaging surface, and wherein thenon-face contacting portion is configured and arranged to resilientlysupport the foam cushion and the membrane; and a nasal ledge comprisinga support structure and a pair of elastic flaps, each of the pair ofelastic flaps configured to project inwardly from the support structuretowards one another so that the pair of elastic flaps form a gaptherebetween adapted to receive the user's nose, wherein each of thepair of elastic flaps includes a face engaging surface adapted tocontact a respective side of the user's nose, and wherein each of thepair of elastic flaps is configured and arranged to contact therespective side of the user's nose and elastically bend towards thedisplay unit so as to rest on the respective side of the user's nosewithout applying substantial compressive pressure on the respective sideof the user's nose.
 39. The head-mounted display system according toclaim 38, wherein the membrane is thinner than the non-face contactingportion.
 40. The head-mounted display system according to claim 38,wherein the membrane, the support structure of the interfacingstructure, and the ledge comprise silicone.
 41. The head-mounted displaysystem according to claim 38, wherein the ledge is configured andarranged to provide resilient, spring-like support to the foam cushionand the membrane.